Club Notes Archive - 2010

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2010

JANUARY

4 January: ~ AGM ~
The Aodh Ruadh AGM took place last Sunday, 3rd January in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. It was a bitterly cold night with treacherous roads, but there was still an attendance of nearly 40 present. Outgoing officers read their reports and there was plenty of debate on the night. The secretary's report is now available to read in the administration section of the site, for those unable to attend on the night. Appointments made on the night were as follows: Patrons, Fr. Cathal O Fearraí (Kilbarron) and Fr. Frank McManus (The Rock); President, Jim 'The Natch' Gallagher; Vice Presidents, Peter Conlon, PJ Buggy and Jackie McDermott; Chairperson, Betty McIntyre; Vice Chairman, Sylvester Maguire; Secretary, John Hughes; Assistant Secretary, Marita Maguire; Treasurer, Mary Grimes; Assistant Treasurer, TBC; PRO, John Hughes; Oifigeach na Gaeilge/Scor, TBC; County Board Delegate, Betty McIntyre; Substitute Delegate, Sylvester maguire; Alcohol and Substance Abuse Officer, TBC; Child Protection Officer, John Travers; and Director of Coaching, Simon Gillespie. Congratulations to all those appointed and best wishes for a successful 2010.

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11 January

~ FOOTBALL ~
Boys under 6 fundamentals training will resume Friday, 22nd January from 6-7pm in the Mercy Hall. All newcomers are more than welcome to come and learn the Fundamental skills of Gaelic Sport. Under 8 Football training resumes Saturday 23rd at 11pm in the new hall at Colaiste Cholmcille all newcomers welcome.

~ HURLING ~
There is a hurling meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Thursday, 14th January at 8pm. Anyone interested in the promotion of adult hurling in Ballyshannon is welcome.

~ REGISTRATION ~
Club membership for 2010 is now due and all club members are asked to submit their registration form and fee at their earliest convenience. The GAA has radically overhauled its membership system and this has meant some dramatic changes. The GAA membership year now runs from March 31st to April 1st. In order to be entitled to the rights of a full member, a person must have their fees paid to the club on a date before March 31st and be registered by the club on the online system in order to have a vote in the upcoming membership year.

A few further points to note.

Only fully registered players ON THE GAA ON-LINE REGISTRATION SYSTEM are allowed to take the field for the club. If your name is not in this system you are ineligible. That has repercussions in terms of insurance cover for injuries.
Registration is an important component in meeting the running costs of the club.
Only fully paid up members will be eligible for the draw for tickets to the football and hurling All Ireland finals.
As per the motion passed at AGM, club membership will be displayed in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.

Membership rates are as follows: Adult, €30; Adult Player (Includes insurance cover for the year), €50; Underage (Under 18 years-of-age) €15. Registration can be paid to Mary Matthews at Shannon's Corner, Ballyshannon. The club requires a fully completed club registration form with each fee. Sub-committees will also be organising registration sessions in the coming weeks. Members will receive a specially commissioned membership card and wallet when they submit their registration.

View/Download registration form.
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~ COLD SNAPS ~
Brian Drummond was been out and about Aodh Ruadh with his camera while the snow was down. Check out some of the shots he took.

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18 January

~ FOOTBALL ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 28th January in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place on Tuesday 26th January in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

There is a meeting of the under 16 football panel in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh this Thursday 21st January at 9pm. All players are asked to attend.

Boys under 6 fundamentals training will resume Friday, 22nd January from 6-7pm in the Mercy Hall. All newcomers are more than welcome to come and learn the Fundamental skills of Gaelic Sport. Under 8 Football training resumes Saturday 23rd at 11pm in the new hall at Colaiste Cholmcille all newcomers welcome.

There is a Céilí and Old Time Barn Dance in the Rock Hall, Ballyshannon on Saturday 6th February. Music by the renown Assaroe Céilí Band gets under way at 9pm and supper will be served. Admission is €8 with all proceeds in aid of Aodh Ruadh Bord na nÓg.

~ HURLING ~
Congratulations to Thomas 'Schillachi' Gallagher who has stepped into the breach and taken charge with the senior hurlers. We wish Schillachi and his team all the best for the coming year.

~ LADIES ~
Aodh Ruadh wishes to extend its sincerest sympathies to Karol Foley and the Foley family on the recent death of her mother Phyllis Foley. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dilis.

The senior Ladies will begin preparations for the 2010 campaign this Saturday 23rd January with training in the Mercy Hall at 11am. There is a charge of €2 per head. All new members welcome.

Under 10 and under 12 training will recommence Wednesday 27th January in the new school hall at Colaiste Cholmcille from 6pm to 7pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
In the coming weeks we are hoping to run a foundation coaches award for anyone looking to get involved working with our teams or with an interesting in coaching in general. The course involves a seven hour coaching course and a three hour child protection program. If you would like to get involved please contact Simon 086-1082554. Places are limited to 12 so please book your place soon.

Please note a Circuits for Success Strength and Conditioning Course will take place in the Ardara club this Tuesday January 19th from 7pm to 8.30pm. This workshop is an introduction for coaches working with teenagers (12-16) and young adults who have little or no experience in Strength and Conditioning. This workshop will look at improving technique, form and structure. Please note the course is free of charge.

The sixth Ulster GAA Coaching and Games Development Conference will take place on Saturday 30th January 2010 in the Glenavon House Hotel in Cookstown. This year's conference targets coaches who are working with youth players from 13-18 years. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis. For further information or to register, please contact Bernie Fox on 048-37521900.

A few further points to note.

Only fully registered players ON THE GAA ON-LINE REGISTRATION SYSTEM are allowed to take the field for the club. If your name is not in this system you are ineligible. That has repercussions in terms of insurance cover for injuries.
Registration is an important component in meeting the running costs of the club.
Only fully paid up members will be eligible for the draw for tickets to the football and hurling All Ireland finals.
As per the motion passed at AGM, club membership will be displayed in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.

Membership rates are as follows: Adult, €30; Adult Player (Includes insurance cover for the year), €50; Underage (Under 18 years-of-age) €15. Registration can be paid to Mary Matthews at Shannon's Corner, Ballyshannon. David O'Donnell in Mojo's is now also taking registrations. The club requires a fully completed club registration form with each fee. Sub-committees will also be organising registration sessions in the coming weeks. Members will receive a specially commissioned membership card and wallet when they submit their registration.

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25 January

~ FOOTBALL ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 28th January in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place on Tuesday 26th January in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Under 8 football continues this Saturday morning from 11-12pm in the new school hall in Colaiste Cholmcille. Any new players aged between 6-8 are encouraged to come up and join in the fun. Players aged 7 or 8 are also expected to attend Under 10 training on a Friday evening between 6-7pm in the new school hall in Colaiste Cholmcille. Well Done to last week's player of the week Daire Gallagher who was fantastic on his first day up to football.

Under 6 Fundamentals continues this Friday evening from 6-7pm in the Mercy hall. All newcomers welcome. A special well done to David Roper last week's Star Player.

There is a Céilí and Old Time Barn Dance in the Rock Hall, Ballyshannon on Saturday 6th February. Music by the renown Assaroe Céilí Band gets under way at 9.30pm and supper will be served. Admission is €8 with all proceeds in aid of Aodh Ruadh Bord na nÓg.

~ HURLING ~>
The inaugural meeting of the Aodh Ruadh's juvenile hurling committee takes place next Monday, 1st February in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 8.30pm. Everyone with an interest in developing underage hurling in Ballyshannon is invited to attend, especially parents of young hurlers.

~ LADIES ~>
Well done to Donna Martin, and Niamh Gallagher on making their 2010 debut with Donegal Ladies when they came out on top against Monaghan in a challenge game. Hopefully their success will continue for the year.

Senior Ladies training continues in the Mercy Hall on Saturday at 11am. There is a charge of €2 per head. This year's membership of €50 for adult players is also now due. Fees, which must also by accompanied by registration forms, can be paid to Karol Foley. Registration forms can be downloaded from aodhruadh.org and an installment payment option is available. All new members will be made most welcome.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
On Saturday 6th February Tommy Stevenson will host a strength and conditioning workshop in the New School Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille from 11am to 1pm. Tommy is regarded as the leading national expert on strength training for GAA players and this visit is an opportunity not to be missed.
All players, parents and coaches from the club are invited to attend. Very interesting information will also be given out on strength training for young players and ladies as well as information on diet and injury prevention. Any players taking part are expected to be at the hall for 10.30am. Any coaches / parents or players from other clubs are also encouraged to attend.

There are a few vacancies left for the foundation coaching course which we hope to run at the end of February if you are interested in doing the child protection course and the foundation football award please contact Simon on 086-1082554.

A few further points to note.

Only fully registered players ON THE GAA ON-LINE REGISTRATION SYSTEM are allowed to take the field for the club. If your name is not in this system you are ineligible. That has repercussions in terms of insurance cover for injuries.
Registration is an important component in meeting the running costs of the club.
Only fully paid up members will be eligible for the draw for tickets to the football and hurling All Ireland finals.
As per the motion passed at AGM, club membership will be displayed in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.

Membership rates are as follows: Adult, €30; Adult Player (Includes insurance cover for the year), €50; Underage (Under 18 years-of-age) €15. Registration can be paid to Mary Matthews at Shannon's Corner, Ballyshannon. David O'Donnell in Mojo's is now also taking registrations. The club requires a fully completed club registration form with each fee. Sub-committees will also be organising registration sessions in the coming weeks. Members will receive a specially commissioned membership card and wallet when they submit their registration.

View/Download registration form.
View / Download form [131KB]

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FEBRUARY

1 February

~ PARK COMMITTEE ~
Donegal take on Laois in Father Tierney Park on Sunday, February 14th and adverts for the programme are now available to purchase. A full page advert costs €90, half page €50 and quarter page €30. You can book your advert with Tom Daly, Terence McShea (087-2360815) or Peter Conlon (087-6838024).
There will be a meeting of the Park Committee this Wednesday 3rd February at 9pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh in preparation for the Laois game.
The Aodh Ruadh Park committee AGM took place recently in conjunction with the club AGM. Officers elected for 2010 are as follows: Chairman - Tom Daly, Secretary - Conal Gallagher, Assistant secretary - Peter Conlon, Joint Treasurers - Terence McShea and Jimmy Gallagher, Bingo treasurer - Cathal Gallagher. Among the highlights of the year were the hoisting of the club centenary flag by GAA president Nickey Brennan on February 28th and the official opening of Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh on May 29th. Tom also reported that in excess of half a million euro had been spent on the Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh Development to date. Among the challenges for 2010 would be the club generating matching funding for the significant external funding secured for the committee's development works.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
This Saturday 6th February Tommy Stevenson will host a strength and conditioning workshop in the New School Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille from 11am to 1pm. Tommy is regarded as the leading national expert on strength training for GAA players and this visit is an opportunity not to be missed. All players, parents and coaches from the club are invited to attend. Very interesting information will also be given out on strength training for young players and ladies as well as information on diet and injury prevention. Any players taking part are expected to be at the hall for 10.30am. Any coaches / parents or players from other clubs are also encouraged to attend.

~ FOOTBALL ~
Due to the workshop in the new school hall under 8 training will be outdoors next Saturday from 11am to 12 noon in the school field at Colaiste Cholmcille. Players are asked to bring a rain jacket and football boots. Well done to this week's player of the week, Harry Hareth. A special get well soon to one of our players, Diarmuid Dolan, from all involved.

Under 6 Fundamentals continues this Friday evening from 6pm to 6.45pm in the Mercy hall. Well done to our star of the week, Pauric Daly. All newcomers from four to six years of age welcome.

Training is continuing frantically in Colaiste Cholmcille and Brian Drummond was up a few night taking shots of the good work being down. His first visit was to see the minors working off the Christmas turkey. His second was last Friday to see Aodh Ruadh's under 6s being put through their FUNdamental paces in the Mercy Hall by Simon Gillespie. Can you spot the county champions in the making yet?

~ HURLING ~
The following posts were filled at the recent inaugural meeting of the juvenile hurling committee: Chairman - John Rooney, Vice-Chairman - Aidan Begley, Secretary - Eddie Lynch, Assistant-Secretary - Jonathan Brown. Also appointed to the committee were Pat Faherty, Peter Horan, Kevin Loughlin, Kevin McDermott, Stephen Sheerin, Michael Ayres and Chris Kelly. Best wishes to all appointed and ádh mór for a successful 2010.

~ LADIES ~
Senior Ladies training continues in the Mercy Hall on Saturday 6th Februay at 11am. There is a charge of €2 per head. There will also be training in Áras Aoidh Ruaidh on Tuesday evening at 7.30pm. This year's membership of €50 for adult players is also now due. Only fully paid members will be eligible to play. Registration forms can be downloaded from aodhruadh.org and an installment payment option is available. All new members will be made most welcome.

Under 10 and under 12 training continues this Wednesday 3rd February in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille from 6pm to 7pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

~ FINANCE COMMITTEE ~
The inaugural meeting of the Aodh Ruadh finance committee will take place this Thursday, 4th February at 9pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Anyone with an interest in restoring the club to financial health and setting it on a sound fiscal footing is invited to attend, particularly anyone with a business background.

~ VOTES OF SYMPATHY ~

There were votes of sympathy at the last Aodh Ruadh monthly club meeting for Mary Mulligan, The Mall; Patricia Breslin, Bundoran; Laurence Larkin, Father of John Larkin, Portumna; Lennie Dorrian, Cloughbolie; Declan Sweeney, Kilcar; Phyllis Foley, mother of Karol Foley; and Vincent Boyle, The Rock on the death of Mrs. Gray, Portnoo.

A few further points to note.

Only fully registered players ON THE GAA ON-LINE REGISTRATION SYSTEM are allowed to take the field for the club. If your name is not in this system you are ineligible. That has repercussions in terms of insurance cover for injuries.
Registration is an important component in meeting the running costs of the club.
Only fully paid up members will be eligible for the draw for tickets to the football and hurling All Ireland finals.
As per the motion passed at AGM, club membership will be displayed in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.

Membership rates are as follows: Adult, €30; Adult Player (Includes insurance cover for the year), €50; Underage (Under 18 years-of-age) €15. Registration can be paid to Mary Matthews at Shannon's Corner, Ballyshannon. David O'Donnell in Mojo's is now also taking registrations. The club requires a fully completed club registration form with each fee. Sub-committees will also be organising registration sessions in the coming weeks. Members will receive a specially commissioned membership card and wallet when they submit their registration.

View/Download registration form.
View / Download form [131KB]

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8 February

~ DONEGAL V LAOIS ~
Father Tierney Park hosts Donegal and Laois this coming Sunday, February 14th at 2.00pm in the National Football League. Stewards and programme sellers are asked to assemble in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 12.30pm. Bord na nÓg are running a half time draw and a large turnout of sellers is requested for 1.00pm. Limited advertising slots in the programme remain available to purchase. A full page advert costs €90, half page €50 and quarter page €30. You can book your advert with Tom Daly, Terence McShea (087-2360815) or Peter Conlon (087-6838024).

~ COACHING CORNER ~
A free course entitled 'Fitness with the Football' takes place this Wednesday 10th February, 7.30pm at the Mid Ulster Sports Arena, Cookstown. Leitrim co-manager John Morrison is the tutor and this outdoor observation session will look at methods such as games/drills to improve fitness levels using the ball.

Last Saturday Aodh Ruadh welcomed Armagh strength and conditioning coach Tommy Stevenson to the new hall at Colaiste Cholmcille. The workshop lasted from 11-1pm and proved to be a great experience for all those who participated. Amongst the topics included in the session were circuit training, pitch based strength training, diet and injury prevention. Using members of the Aodh Ruadh minor and under 16 squads as well as a number of unfortunate coaches Tommy was able to demonstrate the benefits of core and strength training to players from all age groups from our youngest u8s to our senior team players. There are pictures from the session on aodhruadh.org as well as links to videos of Tommy's drills.

Following on from the Ulster Council Coaching conference in Cookstown there are now a number of articles from the day available in the coaching corner section of the website. A presentation delivered by Paul Rouse and Ryan Mellon continues the theme of Core and Strength Conditioning for under 12s, under 14s and under 16s. An insight into Omagh St Enda's success where they won everything in Tyrone last year from under 14 to under 21 is given by Joe McMahon and Liam Grugan. Finally an insight into the life and times of four Time All Star Tony Scullion is available also. A video overview of proceedings is available at http://www.youtube.com/UlsterGAA#p/u/5/6FwNsmihEkY.

~ FOOTBALL ~
Despite the bad weather our under 8s braved the elements and went outside on Saturday with the school hall being in use. Training will from now on be outdoors unless the weather is very bad, in which case we will go back indoors in the new school hall.

A big well done to all our players who took part in under 6 training last Friday especially to our star of the Week Eoin Kelly. Training continues this Friday from 6pm to 6.45pm. All newcomers are most welcome.

~ LADIES ~
Congratulations to Donna Martin who featured in Donegal's 4-12 to 3-4 win over Down in Donegal's division two opener.

Senior Ladies training will take place Wednesday evening and Saturday evening at 7pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. This year's membership of €50 for adult players is also now due. Only fully paid members will be eligible to play. Registration forms can be downloaded from aodhruadh.org and an installment payment option is available. All new members will be made most welcome.

Under 10 and under 12 training continues this Wednesday, 10th February in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille from 6pm to 7pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

A few further points to note.

Only fully registered players ON THE GAA ON-LINE REGISTRATION SYSTEM are allowed to take the field for the club. If your name is not in this system you are ineligible. That has repercussions in terms of insurance cover for injuries.
Registration is an important component in meeting the running costs of the club.
Only fully paid up members will be eligible for the draw for tickets to the football and hurling All Ireland finals.
As per the motion passed at AGM, club membership will be displayed in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.

Membership rates are as follows: Adult, €30; Adult Player (Includes insurance cover for the year), €50; Underage (Under 18 years-of-age) €15. Registration can be paid to Mary Matthews at Shannon's Corner, Ballyshannon. David O'Donnell in Mojo's is now also taking registrations. The club requires a fully completed club registration form with each fee. Sub-committees will also be organising registration sessions in the coming weeks. Members will receive a specially commissioned membership card and wallet when they submit their registration.

View/Download registration form.
View / Download form [131KB]

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15 February

~ MONTHLY CLUB MEETING ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 25th February in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend. Anyone with items for the agenda is asked to mail them to info@aodhruadh.org.

~ FOOTBALL ~
The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place on Tuesday 23rd February in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

There will be no under 8 training this Saturday February 20th. Training will take place in Father Tierney Park the following Saturday, 27th February from 11am to 12 noon. Well done to this week's Player of the Week, Jake Foley. Players are asked to bring their registration form back to the next training session on Saturday, 27th February. Check out aodhruadh.org for a few shots of the lads being put through their paces at last week's session.

Due to the mock exams taking place in the Mercy Hall there will be no under 6 training until Friday, March 6th. Well done to this week's Star of the Week, Declan Kavanagh. Players are asked to bring their registration form to the next night of training - Friday, March 6th.

~ DONEGAL V LAOIS ~
Huge thanks are due to all those who turned out to help out at the Donegal v Laois National League fixture last Sunday. There was no winner of the €100 prize in the half-time draw. The winning number was 2184. If you happen to have won please and have retained your stub, please contact John Hughes at 087-6431805 to arrange payment. If no claim has been made by midnight, Sunday 21st, the prize will be donated to charity.

Our visual laureate, Brian Drummond, was at the game. Check out some of the shots he got of the action on aodhruadh.org.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
The Foundation Coaching Course will take place on Friday and Saturday 26th and 27th February. The Child Protection course will take place at 7pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Friday evening while the coaching course will begin at 10am on Saturday in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All managers, coaches, mentors and helpers who haven't yet done the Foundation Coaching Course must attend this course.

~ HURLING ~
Underage hurling training for under 8s to under 14s begins at 12 noon on Sunday 7th March. All players welcome, especially beginners. Notes will be distributed through the local schools in the coming weeks along with registration forms which can be returned when training starts.

The fourth annual Hurl-a-thon will be held in the Mercy Hall on Saturday 27th March, 2010 from 10am to 10pm. Watch out for further details nearer the event.

~ LADIES ~
Well done to Donna Martin who lined out for Donegal in their league encounter against Armagh in Carrickcruppen last Sunday.

Under 10 and under 12 training continues this Wednesday, 17th February in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille from 6pm to 7pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

A few further points to note.

Only fully registered players ON THE GAA ON-LINE REGISTRATION SYSTEM are allowed to take the field for the club. If your name is not in this system you are ineligible. That has repercussions in terms of insurance cover for injuries.
Registration is an important component in meeting the running costs of the club.
Only fully paid up members will be eligible for the draw for tickets to the football and hurling All Ireland finals.
As per the motion passed at AGM, club membership will be displayed in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.

Membership rates are as follows: Adult, €30; Adult Player (Includes insurance cover for the year), €50; Underage (Under 18 years-of-age) €15. Registration can be paid to Mary Matthews at Shannon's Corner, Ballyshannon. David O'Donnell in Mojo's is now also taking registrations. The club requires a fully completed club registration form with each fee. Sub-committees will also be organising registration sessions in the coming weeks. Members will receive a specially commissioned membership card and wallet when they submit their registration.

View/Download registration form.
View / Download form [131KB]

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22 February

~ MONTHLY CLUB MEETING ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 25th February in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ FOOTBALL ~
The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place on Tuesday 23rd February in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Many thanks to everyone who submitted their registrations at last Friday's under 10 and under 12 training. There are pictures of the registration, the under 10 training and the under 12 training now up on aodhruadh.org.

Under 8 training resumes this Saturday at 11am in the new school hall or school field. Please note the change of venue, training will NOT now take place in Father Tierney Park.

There is no under 6 training again this Friday night with the Mercy hall still in use for mock exams. Training will resume Friday, 5th March at 6pm in the Mercy hall.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
The Foundation Coaching Course will take place this Saturday, 27th February. Coaches are asked to be at the Aras Aodh Ruadh to start for 9.30am sharp. The practical element of the course will take place in the new school hall at Colaiste Cholmcille. Please bring a pen and paper and a USB stick to take notes. The child protection course has been changed to Friday, 19th March at 6.30pm in Aras Aodh Ruadh and not this Friday night as originally planned.

~ HURLING ~
Well done to Aidan Begley and Peter Horan who were part of the Donegal panel who beat Tyrone in the opening game of Donegal's National League campaign last Sunday.

Underage hurling training for under 8s to under 14s begins at 12 noon on Sunday 7th March. All players welcome, especially beginners. Notes will be distributed through the local schools in the coming weeks along with registration forms which can be returned when training starts.

The fourth annual Hurl-a-thon will be held in the Mercy Hall on Saturday 27th March, 2010 from 10am to 10pm. Watch out for further details nearer the event.

~ LADIES ~
Senior Ladies training will take place Wednesday evening at 7pm and Saturday evening at 5.30pm. Please bring outdoor gear. Membership must be paid in full to Karol Foley by Saturday March 13th. Registration forms can be downloaded from aodhruadh.org and only fully paid up members will be allowed to play. All new members will be made most welcome.

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MARCH

1 March

~ FOOTBALL ~
The minors had a good run out against Four Masters in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh in what was a dry run for the championship. Check out some pictures of the shadow boxing.

Under 8 training continues Saturday in the school field weather permitting at 11am this Saturday. Parents are encouraged to collect their children at 11.50pm up at the pitch. Well done to Harry this week's player of the week.

Under 6 training resumes this Friday, 5th March at 6pm in the Mercy hall. All newcomers welcome and any parents who wish to help out and get involved are more than welcome. Remember also to bring your registration forms and €15 membership fee.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
There will be a child protection course up in Aras Aodh Ruadh on Friday evening 19th March. Anyone inovlved with a team in the club who does not hold a completed child protection certificate for GAA coaches must attend. Congratulations to all who took part in the Foundation Award Coaching Course which the club hosted last Saturday.

~ HURLING ~
Well done to Aidan Begley and Peter Horan who were part of the Donegal panel which enjoyed their second of the national league with a victory over Louth in Letterkenny last Sunday.

There is a meeting of the juvenile hurling committee in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh this Thursday, 4th March at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The fourth annual Hurl-a-thon will be held in the Mercy Hall on Saturday 27th March, 2010 from 10am to 10pm. Watch out for further details nearer the event.

~ LADIES ~
Senior Ladies training will take place Tuesday evening at 7.30pm and Thursday evening at 7.30pm. Please bring outdoor gear. Membership must be paid in full to Karol Foley by Saturday March 13th. Registration forms can be downloaded from aodhruadh.org and only fully paid up members will be allowed to play. All new members will be made most welcome.

~ CONGRATULATIONS TOM ~
Tom Daly concluded his three year term as president of the Ulster Council at the convention held in Cavan last Saturday. Aodh Ruadh congratulates Tom on a highly successful term of office, he has been a true ambassador for the club. We also extend our best wishes to Tom's successor Cavan's Aogán Farrell. See some pictures of farewell reception held for Tom in Stormont last week taken by Seamus O'Donnell.

~ VOTES OF SYMPATHY ~
There was a vote of sympathy at the last Aodh Ruadh monthly club meeting for Rosaleen Carron, Ernedale Heights late wife of Danny Carron.

A few further points to note.

Only fully registered players ON THE GAA ON-LINE REGISTRATION SYSTEM are allowed to take the field for the club. If your name is not in this system you are ineligible. That has repercussions in terms of insurance cover for injuries.
Registration is an important component in meeting the running costs of the club.
Only fully paid up members will be eligible for the draw for tickets to the football and hurling All Ireland finals.
As per the motion passed at AGM, club membership will be displayed in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.

Membership rates are as follows: Adult, €30; Adult Player (Includes insurance cover for the year), €50; Underage (Under 18 years-of-age) €15. Registration can be paid to Mary Matthews at Shannon's Corner, Ballyshannon. David O'Donnell in Mojo's is now also taking registrations. The club requires a fully completed club registration form with each fee. Sub-committees will also be organising registration sessions in the coming weeks. Members will receive a specially commissioned membership card and wallet when they submit their registration.

View/Download registration form.
View / Download form [131KB]

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8 March

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh played host to East Tyrone side, Galbally in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh last Saturday. The Ernesiders had a good first half and went in on top at half time. Galbally took the honours in the second half in what was a match played in good, friendly spirit. Some pictures of the exchanges.

The reserves hosted Four Masters for a challenge in Father Tierney Park on early Sunday afternoon. There was a good display from a very young side which was augmented by a few Donegal town lads. Despite the lack of numbers Aodh Ruadh were only shaded by a point at the final whistle, a good result in trying circumstances. Some pictures from the game.

Aodh Ruadh are pleased to announce that local Texaco oil supplier, TEXOIL, have come on board as new jersey sponsors for the Aodh Ruadh minor football team. Aodh Ruadh are delighted to have Texoil linked with one of the clubs most promising and prominent teams. See is a picture of the official presentation of the new jerseys.

The under 16s are the first underage team out in competitive action for 2010. They take on Dungloe in the first round of the league in Father Tierney Park at 12 noon on Sunday, 14th March.

The under 14s are taking part in a tournament co-hosted by Erne Gaels and Devenish this Saturday 13th March. Aodh Ruadh will be based in Garrison for the group stages where they will be in a group with the hosts, Garrison, Belcoo and Naomh Bríd. The first game throws in at 10am. The bus will leave park at 9.15am. Refreshments will be provided, but players are advised to bring a packed lunch also.

Under 10 training goes out doors this week. Players are to be up at Father Tierney park for 11.45am the Saturday. Training runs from 12 noon to 1pm and children should be collected promptly following training.

Under 8 training continues on Saturday morning at 11am in the school field at Colaiste Cholmcille. Well done to our player of the week Mark McGlynn.

Under 6 training continues this Friday evening in the Mercy Hall from 6.00pm to 6.45pm. Well done to this week's Star of the Week Seamí Campbell. As always, all newcomers are most welcome.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
There will be a child protection course up in Aras Aodh Ruadh on Friday evening 19th March. Anyone involved with a team in the club who does not hold a completed child protection certificate for GAA coaches must attend.

~ HURLING ~
Thomas Schillachi Gallagher's charges got their season off to an ideal start when they comprehensively defeated Fermanagh side, Knock Grattan's, 5-19 to 0-2 in the first round of games in Group 5A of the Ulster Hurling League. Check out some pictures of the action. Next up for the seniors is a trip to take on Glencar / Manorhamilton on Saturday 13th April. That game throws in at 4.30pm.

Sunday morning last saw the start of underage hurling training for 2010. Over 70 young hurlers descended on Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, all keen to learn new skills. Training continues this Sunday at 12 noon for under 8s to under 16. We also had nine under 12 hurlers taking part in the all-county trials in Letterkenny where they all did very well. There will be further trials this Sunday and details will be passed on to lads during the week.

The fourth annual Hurlathon takes place on Saturday 27th March. Over the years this has been a great day of fun and a great fundraiser for the promotion and development of hurling in Aodh Ruadh especially, underage hurling. Anyone who wants to try their hand at our ancient game is welcome in the Mercy Hall from 10am to 10pm for a great days fun and sport. Hurlers are out and about with their sponsor cards so please support this unique fund raiser!

~ LADIES ~
Well done to Donna Martin who was in action for Donegal against Sligo last weekend. She picked off two points as Donegal romped home 6-19 to 1-8 winners. Well done also to Maeve Liston and Katie McCafferty who were part of the Donegal under 14 team who beat Tyrone last Saturday.

Senior Ladies training will take place Tuesday and Thursday evening at 7.30pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. There will be outdoor training on Saturday at 5.30pm in the park. Membership must be paid in full to Karol Foley by Saturday March 13th. Registration forms can be downloaded from aodhruadh.org and only fully paid up members will be allowed to play. All new members will be made most welcome.

Under 14 and under 16 training commences at the Lakeside on Wednesday evening from 7pm to 8pm. Everyone welcome.

Under 10 and under 12 training continues this Wednesday, 10th March in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille from 6pm to 7pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed. If you haven't already done so, remember also to bring your registration forms and €15 membership fee.

~ REGISTRATION ~
Club membership for 2010 is now due and all club members are asked to submit their registration form and fee at their earliest convenience. The deadline for club membership is 31st March, so time is getting short. In order to be entitled to the rights of a full member, a person must have their fees paid to the club on a date before March 31st and be registered by the club on the online system in order to have a vote in the upcoming membership year.

A few further points to note.

Only fully registered players ON THE GAA ON-LINE REGISTRATION SYSTEM are allowed to take the field for the club. If your name is not in this system you are ineligible. That has repercussions in terms of insurance cover for injuries.
Registration is an important component in meeting the running costs of the club.
Only fully paid up members will be eligible for the draw for tickets to the football and hurling All Ireland finals.
As per the motion passed at AGM, club membership will be displayed in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.

Membership rates are as follows: Adult, €30; Adult Player (Includes insurance cover for the year), €50; Underage (Under 18 years-of-age) €15. Registration can be paid to Registrar, Marita Maguire, Mary Matthews at Shannon's Corner; and David O'Donnell in Mojo. The club requires a fully completed club registration form with each fee. Members will receive a specially commissioned membership card and wallet when they submit their registration.

View/Download registration form.
View / Download form [131KB]

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15 March

~ FOOTBALL ~
Well done to Peter Boyle who made a second half appearance for Donegal minors as they defeated Fermanagh 2-6 to 0-6 in their first game of the Ulster League.

The under 16s got their league campaign off to the perfect start with a 3-10 to 2-5 win over Dungloe last Sunday in Father Tierney Park. Dungloe weathered the long trip down the road very well and the game was a very tight, competitive affair until the last ten minutes when a Pauric Patton goal finally helped turn matters in Aodh Ruadh's favour. Elsewhere Eamonn McGrath had a fine game at full back while wing backs Darren Gethins and Colm Kelly both impressed as Aodh Ruadh soaked up the pressure. Up front James Barron at centre forward pulled the strings to great effect while Ryan Granaghan picked off a good goal. Pauric Patton's outstanding second half performance was key to Aodh Ruadh securing the two points. The next round of the league sees the under 16s travel to Killybegs on Sunday, 21st March for a throw in of 12 noon. Training as usual on Tuesdays and Fridays.

The under 14s had their first outing of the year in the Erne Gaels/Devenish tournament last Saturday. They beat Belcoo, Devenish and drew with Naomh Bríd in their group games to secure a semi-final spot. There where they were defeated by a strong Kilcar outfit and Dromore ran out ultimate winners.

Under 10 training continues at Father Tierney park this Saturday at 11.45am. Training runs from 12 noon to 1pm and children should be collected promptly following training.

Under 8 training continues this Saturday morning at 11am at the school field in Colaiste Cholmcille. There will be game against Bundoran on Saturday 27th March at 11pm in Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh. Well done to our players of the week Keith Greene and Martin McGarrigle.

Under 6 training continues this Friday evening from 6pm to 6.45pm. All newcomers welcome any parents who wish to lend a hand coaching are more than welcome. Well done to our star player of the week Jack Gallagher.

All managers are reminded that challenge games must be notified to club secretary John Hughes (087-6431805) in good time in order to allow the necessary documentation to be processed.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
The child protection course for coaches who attended the foundation coaching course will take place this Friday evening, 19th March at 6.30pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Anyone involved with a team in the club who does not hold a completed child protection certificate for GAA coaches must attend.

~ HURLING ~
The senior hurlers suffered a one point loss to Glencar/Manorhamilton in the second round of games in Group 5A of the Ulster Hurling League. The final score was 3-4 to 2-6 in favour of the Leitrim men. Next up for the seniors is a Woodford Gaels of Cavan who visit Ballyshannon this Saturday 20th April. That game throws in at 4.30pm.

Hard luck to Aiden Begley, Peter Horan and Chris Kilgannon who were on the Donegal team that lost to Fingal last Sunday and also to Paul Sheridan who played for Cavan against Fermanagh.

Congratulations to six of our under 12 hurlers who have been selected for the county under 12 panel and will take part in a blitz in Croke on Tuesday 6th April. Brendan Gillespie, Oisín Rooney, Shane McGrath, Garreth Sheerin, Patrick Haran and Cian Duffy. This is a great honour for the boys, their families and the club.

There has been great numbers at underage hurling training for the past two Sunday. That should continue this Sunday at 12 noon when again there will be training for under 8s to under 16.

~ LADIES ~
The Aodh Ruadh Ladies hold their Annual Duck Race at McKenna's Brook, East Port on Easter Saturday, 3rd April at 2pm. The girls are out and about now with their cards selling lines so make sure to help them out in whatever way you can. With lots of Easter Eggs to be won, it promises to be a great day out for all the family.

Well done to Donna Martin who lined out for Donegal on Saturday in Páirc Aodh Ruadh and scored a point as the Tir Chonaill girls came out on top against Clare. Check out some shots of the game.

Best wishes to the Ladies senior team who will be taking part in a seven-a-side tournament in Killeavy, county Armagh on Saturday.

This week's senior training will take place on Tuesday and Thursday at 7.30pm. Players are asked to bring gear for training outdoors. There is a final call for membership to be paid in full to Karol Foley by Wednesday March 24th. Registration forms can be downloaded from aodhruadh.org and only fully paid up members will be allowed to play. All new members will be made most welcome.

There is NO underage training this week. Training will recommence on the Wednesday, 24th March in Father Tierney Park and on Friday 26th March from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. All players are asked to return the cards for the Duck Race on Wednesday 24th March.

~ REGISTRATION ~
There will be a special registration evening for anyone who wants to renew or sign-up for club membership on Thursday 25th March in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh from 8pm to 9pm. Club membership for 2010 is now due and all club members are asked to submit their registration form and fee at their earliest convenience. The deadline for club membership is 31st March, so time is getting short. In order to be entitled to the rights of a full member, a person must have their fees paid to the club on a date before March 31st and be registered by the club on the online system in order to have a vote in the upcoming membership year.

A few further points to note.

Only fully paid up members will be automatically eligible for Donegal championship match tickets.
Only fully paid up members will be eligible for the draw for tickets to the football and hurling All Ireland finals.
As per the motion passed at AGM, club membership will be displayed in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.
Only fully registered players ON THE GAA ON-LINE REGISTRATION SYSTEM are allowed to take the field for the club. If your name is not in this system you are ineligible. That has repercussions in terms of insurance cover for injuries.
Registration is an important component in meeting the running costs of the club.

Membership rates are as follows: Adult, €30; Adult Player (Includes insurance cover for the year), €50; Underage (Under 18 years-of-age) €15. Registration can be paid to Club Registrar, Marita Maguire; Mary Matthews at Shannon's Corner; or David O'Donnell in Mojo. The club requires a fully completed club registration form with each fee. Members will receive a specially commissioned membership card and wallet when they submit their registration.

View/Download registration form.
View / Download form [131KB]

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22 March

~ REGISTRATION ~
With the March 31st deadline for club registrations looming, Aodh Ruadh is hosting two special registration evenings for anyone who wants to sign-up or renew club membership. These take place on Thursday 25th March in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh from 8pm to 9pm and on Friday 26th March also from 8pm to 9pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.
In order to be entitled to the rights of a full member, a person must have their fees paid to the club on a date before March 31st and be registered by the club on the GAA's online system. A few further points to note.

Only fully paid up members will be automatically eligible for Donegal championship match tickets.
Only fully paid up members will be eligible for the draw for tickets to the football and hurling All Ireland finals.
As per the motion passed at AGM, club membership will be displayed in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.
Only fully registered players ON THE GAA ON-LINE REGISTRATION SYSTEM are allowed to take the field for the club.
Registration is an important component in meeting the running costs of the club.

Membership rates are as follows: Adult, €30; Adult Player (Includes insurance cover for the year), €50; Underage (Under 18 years-of-age) €15. Registration can be paid to Club Registrar, Marita Maguire; David O'Donnell in Mojo; or Mary Matthews at Shannon's Corner. The club requires a fully completed club registration form with each fee. Members will receive a specially commissioned membership card and wallet when they submit their registration.

View/Download registration form.
View / Download form [131KB]

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~ CLUB MEETINGS ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 1st April in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place on Tuesday 30th March in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh seniors and reserves get their league campaign under way this weekend with a trip to Kilcar on Sunday. The reserve games throws-in at 1.30pm and is followed by the seniors at 3pm. The thirds have a challenge against Erne Gaels this Saturday in Father Tierney Park at 5pm and will be out in division five of the league over Easter weekend.

Best of luck to Peter Boyle who will be hoping to make an appearance for Donegal under 21s as they take on Armagh in the Ulster under 21 championship. The game takes place in Brewster Park, Enniskillen on Wednesday, 24th March and throws in at 8.00pm.

Aodh Ruadh minors continued their pre-season preparation with a challenge game against Naomh Bríd on Wednesday, 17th March. Here's a few shots of the game.

The under 16s match against Killybegs was postponed. The next round of the league sees the under 16s make the short trip to Bundoran on Sunday, 28st March for a throw in of 12 noon. Training as usual on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Under 10 training continues at Father Tierney park this Saturday at 11.45am. Training runs from 12 noon to 1pm and children should be collected promptly following training. Any player not already registered should do so at their earliest convenience.

Our under 8s have their first match of the year against neighbours Bundoran this Saturday. All players must be up in Father Tierney Park for 11am and are expected to wear club colours. The games gets underway at 11.15am. Please come up and support the boys in what will be for many their first game for the club. Players not already registered should remember to bring their registration forms and €15 fee.

Under 6 training continues this Friday evening from 6pm to 6.45pm this Friday evening in the Mercy hall. All newcomers welcome. Well done to this week's player of the week Kyle Murray. Those not already registered should remember to bring their registration forms and €15 fee.

All managers are reminded that challenge games must be notified to club secretary John Hughes (087-6431805) in good time in order to allow the necessary documentation to be processed.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
Due to demand for the child protection course, the club will host another child protection course in late April or early May. Remember child protection courses are limited to 18 in number so please register early if you want to attend this course. Any coaches or parents looking to assist with teams should complete this course.

~ HURLING ~
The senior hurlers had a good win over Woodford Gaels in the third round of games in Group 5A of the Ulster Hurling League. The final score was 4-15 to 0-2. Next up for the seniors is a the return trip to Knock Grattans on Saturday 27th April. That game throws in at 4.30pm.

The fourth annual Hurlathon will take place this Saturday 27th March. Play begins at 10am with under 8s and under 10s taking to the floor. They are followed at 2pm by our under 12s and under 14s. At 6pm under 16s, parents and seniors finish off proceedings. The above times are a guideline and players are free to come in at any stage. Who will ever forget the mothers match last year! It is hoped to repeat it and to also have a Fathers game. All welcome to this event and a great days craic is assured. Please support this fundraiser for the promotion and development of hurling in Aodh Ruadh especially underage hurling.

Our under 14s play MacCumhaill's in first round of league at home on Thursday. All players to be at park at for 4.30 pm

Well done to all the young hurlers who took part in Saint Patrick's Day parade. Thanks also to Peter Horan and Michael Ayres who organised the players for the day.

The senior ladies team had an early start on Saturday morning when they travelled to Killeavy in Armagh for the senior ladies 7s. On reaching the quarter-final they were narrowly defeated by a strong side from Derrynoose Saint Mochua GAC. Well done to all involved on the day! Check out these few pictures of what the girls got up to on their travels. Senior ladies training will take place Tuesday and Thursday at 7.30pm in the park and on Saturday at 6pm. The Ladies play their first match of the season on Good Friday, 2nd April in Father Tierney park against Malin at 6.30pm.

Congratulations to Katie Flood, who lined out for DCU on Friday when they won the Donaghy shield. Another All-Ireland success for the Aodh Ruadh Ladies!

The Ladies club are now taking entries for the 'Whose Got Talent?' competition in aid of the of the Donegal Ladies County Board. Application forms are now available from all club officers. The closing date for applications is Friday the 9th April, and entry fee is €50. The first heat takes place in the Abbey Hotel in Donegal Town on Friday the 30th April with €1,500 for first place.

Underage training recommences this week at Father Tierney Park on Wednesday and Friday from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. All players are asked to return their cards for the duck race as well as their membership forms and €15 membership fees. Under 14 and under 16 training will take place at the Lakeside on Wednesday at 7pm.

~ SAINT PATRICK'S PARADE ~
Congratulations to all who helped out and participated in the Saint Patrick's day parade. See some pictures of the Aodh Ruadh participants in the parade.

~ SUICIDE AWARENESS WORKSHOP ~
Dungloe are hosting a suicide awareness workshop on Monday 29th March from 7pm to 10pm in Rosses Community School in Dungloe. This night will benefit all people involved in club committees, team management, coaching and players at all levels. In the current climate it is important to know and be aware of the signs of suicide. Anyone interested should call Angela Boyle on 087-6538173 by Tuesday, 23rd March.

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29 March

~ CLUB MEETING ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Wednesday 31st March in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ REGISTRATION ~
With the March 31st deadline for club registrations hours away, this is the very last call for club membership. Registration can be paid to Club Registrar, Marita Maguire; David O'Donnell in Mojo; or Mary Matthews at Shannon's Corner. Registrations will also be taken at Aras Aoidh Ruaidh from 8pm to 8.30pm this Wednesday, 31st March, just before the monthly club meeting. Membership rates are as follows: Adult, €30; Adult Player (Includes insurance cover for the year), €50; Underage (Under 18 years-of-age) €15. The club requires a fully completed club registration form with each fee. Members will receive a specially commissioned membership card and wallet when they submit their registration. A few further points to note.

Only fully paid up members will be automatically eligible for Donegal championship match tickets.
Only fully paid up members will be eligible for the draw for tickets to the football and hurling All Ireland finals.
As per the motion passed at AGM, club membership will be displayed in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.
Only fully registered players ON THE GAA ON-LINE REGISTRATION SYSTEM are allowed to take the field for the club.
Registration is an important component in meeting the running costs of the club.

View/Download registration form.
View / Download form [131KB]

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh made the trip to Towney last weekend to take on Kilcar in the first round of the league last Sunday. Last year Kilcar were a point off a division one league final play-off, instead they ended up in a relegation dog-fight which they lost. So a tough game was in prospect, but it was Aodh Ruadh that had the better of the opening half and if it hadn't been for a goal which took two wicked deflections they would have been going in two points to the good at half time rather than a point down. Kilcar upped it in the second half, but there was much to take heart from in the performance. Michael Ward at corner back gave a fine display of how to keep the game simple while Barry Mulligan was an energizing force around the centre of the park. Up front Sticky Ward showed a lot of leadership in a new look attack. In the end it was Kilcar who took the points on a score line of 2-10 to 0-10.

The reserves also went down in a battling display, this time the score was 2-9 to 1-7. It was a very young Aodh Ruadh team which took to the pitch, but they played with considerable endeavour and determination. Joe Watson was an endlessly creative presence while Donagh McIntyre finished with 1-4 to his credit.

Next Easter Sunday the seniors and reserves face MacCumhaill's in Father Tierney Park. The reserve game throws-in at 1.30pm and is followed by the seniors at 3pm. The draw for the 2010 county championships take place this Tuesday 30th March in the Raidió na Gaeltachta studios at 4.30pm.

The thirds have their first game in division five of the league against Ardara in Father Tierney Park this Good Friday at 6pm.

The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place on Tuesday 30th March in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Well done to Peter Boyle as he kept yet another inter-county clean sheet while making his debut for the county under 21s last Wednesday. Donegal defeated Armagh 1-9 to 0-9 to book their place in the Ulster semi-final against Derry in Healy Park, Omagh on Wednesday 31st March at 8pm. Once again the very best of luck to Peter as the under 21s chase a place in the Ulster final. Also in inter-county action was Ronan McGurrin who played the first half of the Donegal v Tyrone Ulster Minor League game at Father Tierney Park last Saturday. Here's a few shots of the action in that game.

The under 16s gave a fine display in their second game of the season to chalk up their second win. They defeated Bundoran by 0-3 to 5-16 in Gaelic Park. It was a victory driven from half back where Colm Kelly and Darren Gethins were very impressive, James Kelly at midfield and James Barron centre forward were both also key in driving Aodh Ruadh forward. James Kelly capped a fine performance with a well taken goal, while Johnny Gethins was in sparkling form and showed it with two fine goals. Ryan Granaghan and David McGurrin also raised green flags in a game where there wasn't an Aodh Ruadh performance under eight out ten. The next game for the under 16s should be in Fintra against Killybegs on Wednesday 7th April at 6.30pm. Training as usual on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Well done to all those who participated in our under 8 blitz against Bundoran on Saturday 27th March. There were 29 Aodh Ruadh players in action against the neighbours. Some were pulling on the green and white jersey for the very first time, making this a very special occasion. A special word of thanks to all those who helped out on the day with goalposts, cones, refereeing, first aid, jerseys and managing and to all the parents who came up and supported both teams. The football on show from both teams was exceptional with star performances from Aodh Ruadh's Cian Bardon, Ryan Keenaghan and Colm McGloin. Browse nearly 50 pictures from a great morning's football. With Easter next Saturday there will be no Football but we will return to action the following Saturday April 10th.

Under 6 training will not take place for the next two weeks with the Easter break. Training will resume on Friday 16th April in the Mercy hall at 6pm. Well done to this week's star player of the week Shane McGloin.

All managers are reminded that challenge games must be notified to club secretary John Hughes (087-6431805) in good time in order to allow the necessary documentation to be processed.

~ HURLING ~
The senior hurlers had a good win over Knock Grattan's in the fourth round of games in Group 5A of the Ulster Hurling League. The final score was 1-5 to 3-12 in favour of the Ernesiders.

The fourth annual Hurlathon took place in the Mercy Hall on Saturday last. Over 100 young and not so young hurlers took part in this event. Our under 8s got proceedings under way at 10am. Play continued through the day until 10pm. One of the highlights of the day was the couples match where the Townies beat Cashelard. Despite a great performance in goals by Caroline Irwin there was no stopping Frankie Sheerin and his crew. Thanks to all the parents who brought food and catered for the crowds all day.
Thanks to all who sponsored the refreshments which were served throughout the day - Western Wholesale (Paul Gillespie), Fred Ormston (Mace), Pearse O'Neill, Kernan's and Mary Matthews of Shannon's Corner. Thanks to all the hurlers and their families who supported this event. Thanks to Ocean FM and the Donegal Democrat for promoting the Hurlathon. Thanks to Michael Donagher for all his help on the day and Colaiste Cholmcille for the use of the Mercy Hall. Finally thanks to all who sponsored the hurlers taking part. Thanks finally to all those who worked so hard gathering sponsorship. Check out these pictures of the action.

Our under 14s are playing Letterkenny Gaels on Thursday evening. The bus leaves the park at 5 pm. Underage training continues on Sunday at 12 noon.

~ LADIES ~
The Aodh Ruadh Ladies hold their Annual Duck Race at McKenna's Brook, East Port on Easter Saturday, 3rd April at 2pm. The girls are out and about now with their cards selling their last few lines so make sure to help them out in whatever way you can. With lots of Easter Eggs to be won, it promises to be a great day out for all the family. All players are asked to return their cards for the Duck Race as soon as possible.

The senior ladies commence their league campaign on Good Friday at 6pm in the park against Malin. All support would be much appreciated.

The under 14 girls play Naomh Conaill in Father Tierney Park this Good Friday at 11am. A good show of support for the first game of the season would be much appreciated.

Underage training will continue on Wednesday and Friday at 5.30pm in the park. The under 14s and under 16s will continue on Wednesdays at 7pm in the Lakeside.

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APRIL

5 April

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh got their first points of their division two campaign with an industrious win over MacCumhaill's in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. There was a significant breeze which had a marked impact on the game. Aodh Ruadh had the wind behind them in the first half and shot 1-6 in that period. It was the defence that was most impressive in that period with Johnny Gallagher, Michael Ward and Niall McCready snuffing out any forward momentum MacCumhaill's might have hoped to have develop. Sticky Ward was a real torture for the Finnsiders throughout and they found it very difficult to handle his energy and shooting. A dominant midfield performance in the second half by Ciron Whoriskey and Stephen Ward helped undermine the wind advantage for Ballybofey. Time and again the positioning of Philip O'Reilly and Darren Drummond was spot on as MacCumhaill's lofted in long ball after long ball. In the final quarter Barry Mulligan upped his performance and it was his super left footed free that sealed the game for the homesters. See the full match report and some great pictures.

A youthful Aodh Ruadh reserves delivered a battling display for the second week in a row. However they slipped to a one point defeat against MacCumhaill's in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh last Sunday. It was nip and tuck in the first half and the Ernesiders went in 0-6 to 0-7 down at the break. They turned on the afterburners in the third quarter though and were three points to the good at one stage, before being reeling in by Ballybofey and pipped at the end on a final score line of 0-13 to 0-14. It was a match marked by some fine point scoring with Diarmaid McInerney Pauric Loughlin and Ronan McGurrin firing over some fine efforts. Spanny Goan was in fine form too, doing a good job of linking things together up front. Stephen Bradley at half back continued to impress with another strong showing. We have some shots of the action.

The thirds were defeated 1-4 to 0-10 by Ardara in their first match of the division five season. Aodh Ruadh got off to a flyer after a sublime ball from Val Murray set Francis McShea free to score a cracking goal. After that the first half was a nip and tuck affair and Ballyshannon went in a point down at the break. In the second half the shooting let Aodh Ruadh down while Ardara steadily kept the score board ticking over to seal the win. There were good performances from Aidan Murray in the forward line and Matthew Thompson who was influential in midfield. Here's a few pictures from the game.

The fixtures for the coming weekend see the seniors and reserves host Cloughaneely in Father Tierney park on Saturday, 10th April. The reserve game throws in at 5.00pm and is followed by the seniors at 6.30pm. The thirds have a short trip in the direction of Lough Derg on Sunday 11th April when they play Pettigo in the second round of games in division five. The throw in for that game is 6pm.

Aodh Ruadh seniors and reserves drew Saint Eunan's in the championship first round, while the thirds will face Glenfin in the preliminary round of the Junior B championship. Win that and they face Naomh Conaill. The under 21s were also drawn in the preliminary round. They will face Fanad Gaels in their opener with victory in that game seeing the winner into a first round tie against Gaoth Dobhair.

Peter Boyle continues to impress with the Donegal u-21s. He made a crucial save to keep Donegal four points to the good in the closing stages of their semi-final against Derry last Saturday in Enniskillen. This Wednesday 7th April Donegal face Cavan in the Ulster final in Brewster Park at 8pm. We wish Peter and Donagh McIntyre the very best as the under 21s bid for Ulster glory.

It's a busy week of league action ahead for the under 16s. First up is the visit of Killybegs to Father Tierney Park on Wednesday April 7th. All players must be up at the park for 4.30pm. After that there's a challenging trip to Anagaire on Friday to take on Naomh Mhuire. Details of preparations for that game will be supplied on Wednesday.

It's Féile time for the under 14s and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh will be the venue as the club hosts Aodh Ruadh, Four Masters and Bundoran for a division one regional blitz this Saturday, 10th April. The first game gets under way at 11am.

The under 13s got their league season under way with a comprehensive win over Bundoran. The Ernesiders were well served up the centre, with Conor Kennedy at full back, Ciaran Kelly at centre back and Jason Gallagher in midfield making it extraordinarily difficult for Bundoran to find and forward momentum. By contrast Aodh Ruadh had a number of forwards in exceptional form. Philip Patton and Daniel Warnock on the half forward line and Shane McGrath at full forward were a constant threat while man of the match wing forward Ryan Gallagher was a constantly creative presence. The next assignment for the under 13s is a trip to Dungloe next Monday night.

Training for under 12s, 13 and 14s takes place this Wednesday and Friday at 10.45pm up at the park.

Under 8 training resumes this Saturday morning at 11am in the school field in Colaiste Cholmcille.

There will be no under 6 training this week. Players are encouraged to attend under 8 training on Saturday mornings at 11am in the school field in Colaiste Cholmcille.

~ HURLING ~
The senior hurlers are out this weekend in Group 5A of the Ulster Hurling League. They host Glencar / Manorhamilton in Father Tierney Park on Saturday, 4th April at 4.30pm.

The under 14 hurlers began their league campaign with a good win away to Letterkenny Gaels on Thursday last. There's an under 14 challenge game in Father Tierney Park on Sunday 11th April at 5pm against Naomh Eoin of Sligo.

Our under 8 hurlers are taking part in a blitz in Donegal Town on Sunday, 11th April. The bus leaves Father Tierney park at 10am. If anyone needs any information regarding this blitz please contact Eddie Lynch on 087-7583171.

Underage training continues every Sunday at 12 noon.

~ LADIES ~
Aodh Ruadh got their 2010 league campaign off to a good start when they took on a strong Malin side last Friday, 2nd April. In adverse weather conditions, it was a hard fought battle from beginning to end, with just two points in it at half time when the score line read, Aodh Ruadh 0-6 Malin 0-4. However in the second half Aodh Ruadh managed to hold Malin to just one point. The game finished 0-14 0-5. The team on the day was: Marita Maguire; Catherine Lloyd, Niamh Gallagher, Karol Foley; Grainne McCosker, Annette Lloyd, Katie Flood; Tanya O'Shea, Sarah Patton; Marita Leonard, Donna Martin, Emma McPhelim; Fionnuala Gill, Lorraine Roper, Donna Rogers. Andrea Rogers replaced Lorraine Roper who sustained an injury in the first half. We have some pictures of the action.

Well Done to Tara Khan, Dearbhaile McNeill and Anna Rafferty who lined out for Donegal minors when they had a comfortable win over Tyrone on Saturday in Glenelly. The game finished 6-16 to 2-5.

Well Done to the under 14 girls who had a good win over Glenties on Friday. The game finished 8-8 to 2-4. Next up for the under 14s is a trip to play Ardara on Thursday evening. Under 14 training now takes place in the park on Wednesdays at 7pm.

Under 10 and under 12 training continues on Wednesdays and Fridays at 5.30pm.

It didn't look so great on Easter Saturday morning, but the sun eventually broke through and there was wonderful weather for the annual Duck Race at McKenna's Brook in Ballyshannon and a large crowd gathered to enjoy the afternoon's entertainment organised by the Aodh Ruadh Ladies Committee. Teddy Kane had the ducks under starter's orders and Colman Kerr on hand to scoop the winning ducks out of the brook. A raffle was held for Easter eggs after each race and there can't have been too many who went home without an egg. The final race decided the winners of the cash prizes on offer. First duck home belonged to Claire Toolan winning her €100. Second was Katie Flood who won €50. They were followed by Pauric Gaffney, Shane Delahunty and Mick McGrath who each won prizes of €30. Many thanks to Mick McGrath who donated his winnings back to the club. Many thanks also to all who attended the event, as well as everyone who helped out on the day and made it such a success. Check out some pictures of the fun.

~ REGISTRATION ~
Registration for 2010 has now closed. Any registration taken from now on will be for 2011. Thanks to everyone who signed up with the club and especially to those who helped get the process run off so smoothly in such a small time frame. Our registrar Marita Maguire deserves special credit for driving the whole process which has seen over 500 people sign up as club members.

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12 April

~ CLUB MEETINGS ~
There is a meeting of the club's Finance Committee in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Tuesday, 12th May at 8.30pm. There is also a meeting of the Park Committee on Wednesday at 9pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh had to rely on a last gasp Sticky Ward point to save the day against Cloughaneely in an enthralling division two encounter in Páirc Aoidh Ruadh last Saturday. The homesters dominated the game in the first half and went in with a five point advantage at half time. However a few lapses in defence cost Aodh Ruadh dearly as Cloughaneely came out with all guns blazing in the second half. With time running out Sticky Ward took on the responsibility and slotted over the effort that got Aodh Ruadh a deserved draw. Ballyshannon's man of the match was Barry Mulligan who finished the game with 3-5 of Aodh Ruadh final tally of 3-14. That haul included two brilliantly struck penalties. Brian Roper and Sticky Ward worked hard up front while Donagh Mcintyre also made some very timely and telling interceptions. Once again there was a very solid performance from Packie McGrath at centre half.

It was disappointment again for the reserves last week. A very young reserve side fielded and they found it difficult to live with their more experienced MacCumhaill's counterparts despite the best efforts of Paul Kane in goals and Barry Travers manfully holding the line at centre half. Conor Patton impressed at full back, as did Ronan McGurrin and Diarmuid McInerney up front.

The thirds got a 2-7 to 2-8 win away to Pettigo last Friday.

The fixtures for the coming weekend see the seniors and reserves travelling to Buncrana on Sunday, 18th April. The reserve game throws in at 2.30pm and is followed by the seniors at 4pm. The thirds host Naomh Conaill on Saturday 17th April in Father Tierney Park in division five. The throw in for that game is 12 noon.

Congratulations to the Donegal under 21 footballers who defeated Cavan in a wonderful final in Brewster park last Wednesday. In particular congratulations to our own two club men who were part of the panel, Peter Boyle and Donagh McIntyre. Peter had another fine game between the posts and did his club and county proud with another clean sheet. And not for lack of effort on the behalf of the Cavan attack. Ronan Matthews and Brian Drummond were out and busy with their cameras. Have a look and see if they got a shot of you. The All-Ireland under 21 semi-final between Donegal and Tipperary will take place this Saturday, 17th April at 7.30pm in Parnell Park, Dublin. Once again we wish Peter, Donagh and the boys all the best of luck.

The under 16s picked up four league points over the past week. The first two came when Killybegs conceded their game, while the second came with a 1-2 to 2-12 away victory against Naomh Mhuire. Next up for the under 16s is the trip to Towney on Friday, 16th April where they take on Kilcar at 6.30pm. This game could have a big say in the final complexion of the top of the table, so as much travelling support as possible would be much appreciated.

After last Saturday's false for the Féile start Aodh Ruadh play Four Masters on Tuesday 13th April at 5.45pm at Father Tierney Park

The under 13s were up in Dungloe on Monday evening and after a very tight match lost out by a point to a gallant Dungloe by 3-2 to 2-6. A penalty save by Gavin McDaid saw Aodh Ruadh going in at half time leading 2-1 to 1-2. Despite a good second half goal by Gareth Sheerin, Dungloe did enough to hold on. Best for Aodh Ruadh were Kieran Kelly and Caolan O'Halloran in defence while Jason Gallagher and Oisín Rooney battled hard in midfield throughout. The next assignment for the under 13s is at home to Killybegs next Monday night at 6.30pm.

Training for under 12s, 13 and 14s takes place this Wednesday and Friday at 4.30pm up at the park.

Under 10 training continues at Father Tierney park this Saturday at 11.45am. Training runs from 12 noon to 1pm and children should be collected promptly following training. You can get a little idea what the lads are at through these new pictures.

There will be no under 6 training for the next few weeks. All players are encouraged to attend under 8 training this Saturday from 11am to 12 noon at the school field at Colaiste Cholmcille. Well done to this week's players of the week Ryan and Cian.

~ HURLING ~
The senior hurlers suffered a narrow loss to Glencar/Manorhamilton in Group 5A of the Ulster Hurling League last Saturday. The final score that match was 4-05 to 3-09 in favour of the Leitrim men.

The under 16s play Lisbellaw at home on Thursday night, 15th April in the first round of the Fermanagh league

The under 14s had a good win against Naomh Eoin of Sligo in the league this Thursday. They play Four Masters in the league this Thursday at home. All player are asked to be at the park at 6.15pm. Ballyshannon hosts the county Féile this Saturday.

Tuesday 6th April is a day that will live long in the memory of six of under 12 hurlers who were part of a 36 strong Donegal panel who took part in an Ulster Activity day in Croke Park. Our day in Croke Park began with the boys playing in a series of nine-a-side games for an hour and a half on the hallowed turf of Croke Park. It was a great day for the boys, their families and the club. Well done to all those who travelled for this very memorable and enjoyable experience. The six boys who played in Croke park were Brendan Gillespie, Oisín Rooney, Shane McGrath, Patrick Haran, Cian Duffy and Garrett Sheerin. They were accompanied by their mentors John Rooney and Peter Horan. It is hoped it's the first of many appearances for the boys on the field in Croke Park. Check out these pictures of the visit to headquarters.

On Sunday last our under 8s took part in the first blitz of the year in Donegal town. It was hosted by Four Master and 15 young hurlers were tested by three very competitive games and all the players performed very well and enjoyed their day. Thanks to all the parents who travelled to the blitz and supported the young hurlers. Thanks to Four Master for their refreshments, which were enjoyed by all. Well done to Eddie Lynch and Denis Daly and all who helped out on the day. We have a team picture of our youngest hurlers.

Underage training continues every Sunday at 12 noon.

~ LADIES ~
The Senior Ladies are away to Ardara next Sunday at 12 noon.

The under 14s had a good win this week over Ardara. There next game will be in two weeks time. Training for under 16s and under 14s will take place in the park at 7pm on Wednesday evening.

Training for the under 12s, under 10s and under 8s continues on Wednesdays and Fridays in the park at 5.30pm.

Well done once again to Donna Martin who lined out for Donegal senior ladies when they were victorious against a strong Kildare side on Sunday on a score line of 3-12 to 1-16.

This week's table quiz in Owen Roes on Thursday will be in Aid of the Aodh Ruadh Ladies club, all support would be greatly appreciated.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
Our Child Protection night will take place Friday 7th May in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. With places filling up it is essential that you register as soon as possible to secure your place.

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19 April

~ CLUB MEETINGS ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 29th April in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend. The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place on Tuesday 27th March in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ PITCH BOOKINGS ~
With Peter Conlon away for the next two weeks, pitch bookings should be directed to Pat Malaniff on 086-1217403

~ FOOTBALL ~
The seniors had a well deserved away win last Sunday when they defeated Buncrana by 3-8 to 0-5. Two first half goals did much of the damage. The first came after a well-worked interlinking move which David Dolan got on the end of and finished sweetly. The next goal came from Brian Roper. He lost his man with a left foot solo dummy and hit a speculative effort with the right which ended up nestling in the back of the net. Sticky Ward added a third goal in the second half with a brilliant bullet of an effort, and indeed Sticky was in exceptionally good from in general. There was an impressive senior debut by Ronan McGurrin got who took two fine points from his berth at corner forward. PJ McGee also worked out well at corner back. Just behind PJ, Gary Walsh rolled back the years to man the parallelogram for Aodh Ruadh once again in a senior football match. And he showed the reactions are just as sharp as ever. All round it was a very pleasing display from Aodh Ruadh with great team effort and work rate on show.

It was so close over the past few games, but the reserves finally got their long deserved opening league win. In a hard fought game against a gallant Buncrana outfit they just showed enough hunger at the death to edge the game by 1-5 to 0-9, Aodh Ruadh's winning point coming in injury time. Ronan Drummond was fantastic for Ballyshannon at centre half back while Michael Dolan was also outstanding at wing back. Matthew 'Turkey' Thompson and Barry Travers did well in the middle of the pitch battling for ball and feeding the attack. In attack, Diarmaid McInerney took a number of good scores while Turlough McIntyre caused Buncrana serious problems with his work at full forward.

The thirds enjoyed their second win on the bounce last Friday as they entertained Naomh Conaill in Father Tierney park. Aodh Ruadh got off two a good start, knocking over three points, a lead which they were able to maintain for the remainder of the game. Indeed at one point they were ahead by eight points at one stage. In the end Ballyshannon ended the match as five point winners. Best for Aodh Ruadh were Maurice Kane, who had a fine game wing back; three goal marauder Steven Perry, and Martin Gallagher who pitched in with a goal and a point from midfield. There was also a fine outing by senior manager Val Murray who was his usual nerveless self from the placed ball.

The fixtures for the coming weekend see the seniors and reserves host Killybegs on Sunday, 25th April. The reserve game throws in at 1.30pm and is followed by the seniors at 3pm. The thirds travel to Glenswilly on Saturday, 24th April for their next game in division five. The throw in for that match is 5pm.

Once again the Donegal under 21 footballers did the county proud as they outclassed Tipperary to book their place in the All-Ireland final against Dublin. Two superb saves by Aodh Ruadh's Peter Boyle played a major part in keeping Donegal in the match. Peter has yet to concede a goal in this campaign our hopes and prayers are with him that he carries that unblemished record to the final whistle in Kingspan Breffni Park on Saturday 1st May, throw in 7pm. Congratulations also to Donagh McIntyre who also flies the Aodh Ruadh's flag in the Donegal squad. The excitement will be feverish in the build-up to the final. Right now we can only applaud and celebrate the boys for all that they have achieved to date and wish them the very best of luck as they set attempt to bring home Donegal's third ever All-Ireland under-21 title.

The minors face into the long trip to Anagaire for their first competitive game of the year when they take on Naomh Mhuire in the minor league this Friday 23rd April, throw-in 7pm.

The under 16s sank to their first defeat of the year away to Kilcar last Friday. The damage was done when Kilcar got off to a blinding start. In the first half Jamie McDonald was Aodh Ruadh's primary threat and his goal helped reduce the damage as the sides went in at 2-8 to 1-1 at half time. Ballyshannon made a commitment to win the second half and they did that with a dramatically improved performance. The full time score was 3-11 to 1-9. Many of the Ernesiders best displays came in defence where Colm Kelly had a magnificent game in defence as did Darren Gettins at half back. Up front, James Barron soldiered well throughout against a tenacious Kilcar defence. The next two games for the under 16s are both in Father Tierney Park. The first is this Wednesday 21st April against Saint Naul's. That is followed by Ardara on Monday, 26th April. Both games throw in at 6.30pm and are crucial for the lads as they chase a place in the divisional final. A big show of support at these games would be much appreciated.

The under 13s enjoyed a good 5-15 to 0-1 win at home to Killybegs on Monday night. With three games gone the sit at second in the table behind Dungloe and alongside Naomh Conaill and Ardara. The next match for the under 13s will be the trip to Glenties to take on Naomh Conaill on Monday, 3rd May, throw-in at 6.30pm.

Aodh Ruadh host Bundoran next Monday, 26th April for the first Go Games blitz of the season. Action commences at 7pm.

Training for under 12s, 13 and 14s takes place this Wednesday and Friday at 4.30pm up at the park.

Under 10 training continues at Father Tierney park this Saturday at 11.45am. Training runs from 12 noon to 1pm and children should be collected promptly following training.

Under 8 training continues at 11am in the school field at Colaiste Cholmcille on Saturday morning. There will be a match against Dromore of Tyrone on Saturday, 8th May. Further details in due course. Well done to our star players of the week David Roper and Diarmuid Dolan. There will be no under 6 training for the next few weeks. All players are encouraged to attend under 8 training this Saturday from 11am to 12 noon at the school field at Colaiste Cholmcille.

~ HURLING ~
On Saturday 17th April, Aodh Ruadh hosted the county under 14 hurling Féile tournament in glorious sunshine in Father Tierney Park and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The four top teams in the county took part in this tournament; Buncrana, Burt, Saint Eunan's and host club Aodh Ruadh, so a great day of hurling was assured.
The tournament was played on a round robin basis with the top two teams to play in the 2010 Donegal Féile final and the winners going on to represent Donegal in the All-Ireland Féile in Clare in June 2010.
A huge crowd turned up at Father Tierney Park for this eagerly awaited final between Aodh Ruadh and Buncrana. The game started at a frantic pace and the commitment and skill levels of both teams were admired by all. Both teams were to be lauded for the efforts they put in for what was their fourth game of the day. Aodh Ruadh led at half time by 1-1 to no score. The Ballyshannon boys were determined this was going to be their day. Four year of hard work on and off the field by the panel and their management had brought them to this stage and they were determined not to let it slip. They gave it everything for the second half, played through the pain barrier and won out convincing winners by 1-5 to no score.
There were scenes of great celebration at the final whistle as the team made history to becoming the first Aodh Ruadh side to claim the Donegal hurling Féile title. This team continues to upset the form book and showed what determination and hard work can achieve. They set a goal to win this Féile in 2006 and that's exactly what they did. It was a great victory for the 21 man panel, their management and their families who helped out at every step of the way. All the effort and hard work paid off and we all look forward to heading to Clare in June. When the excitement had calmed down, Donegal Hurling Chairman, Donal McLaughlin, presented the trophy to the winning captain, Ciaran Rami who gratefully accepted Aodh Ruadh's first trophy of the new decade. A huge cavalcade toured the town with scenes of great jubilation. The boys also led the cavalcade to Tonragee to Mr. Hurling, Billy Finn who was part of this team from their first under 10 game together in 2006.
Thanks to all the mothers who catered for all the teams. Thanks to the Aodh Ruadh Park Committee for the excellent facilities. Thanks to the referees Dan Hartnett and Eddie Lynch. Thanks also to Pat Malaniff and to all the supporters. Thanks to all who helped us in any way and finally thanks to the lads themselves for the great achievement and the impeccable display of all their skills, discipline and sportsmanship.
Check out the full and unabridged report on the day's action and some superb photography.

The under 16s play Lisnaskea in the Fermanagh league at home on Thursday night, 22nd April. They lost to Lisbellaw by four points at home last week despite putting in a battling performance and a few players failing to show for the game.

The under 10s host a blitz this Sunday. All player are to be up at the park for 10.30am. Underage training continues for all other teams at Sunday at 12 noon.

~ LADIES ~
The senior Ladies continued their winning ways in the league on Sunday when they scored 4-14 to Ardara's 3-3. The next League game will be away to Convoy next weekend, time to be confirmed.

Well done to Tara Khan, Dearbhaile McNeill and Anna Rafferty, all of whom lined out for Donegal minor ladies in the Ulster semi-final last Saturday against Monaghan. The final score was Donegal 5-15 Monaghan 1-14.

The under 14s have no game this week. Training continues on Wednesday evening at 7pm. The girls will be back in action again next week against Four Masters.

Aodh Ruadh under 12 girls take part in the first county blitz hosted by Saint Naul's on Saturday 24th April. The bus for Mountcharles leaves Father Tierney park at 10am sharp.

Underage training continues in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Wednesday and Friday evening from 5.30pm to 6.30pm.

Aodh Ruadh ladies would like to thank all helped out and supported the quiz last Thursday night. The night was a great success thanks to the contribution of all involved.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
Our Child Protection night will take place on Friday, 7th May at 6.30pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. With places filling up it is essential that you register as soon as possible to secure your place.

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27 April

~ PITCH BOOKINGS ~
With Peter Conlon away for the next week, pitch bookings should be directed to Pat Malaniff on 086-1217403

~ FOOTBALL ~
The seniors put themselves joint top of division two with Glenfin last Sunday when they defeated Killybegs by 3-11 to 3-10 in a roller coaster of a game in Father Tierney Park. It was a game where goals helped put Aodh Ruadh into a commanding position, but ultimately it was the composed point taking of Sticky Ward that ensured that the points stayed Erneside. Two goals in the first half from Packie McGrath and Sticky Ward helped Aodh Ruadh to a 2-6 to 0-8 half time lead. In the second half Barry Mulligan's penalty put further daylight between the sides while Sticky Ward hit the winning point on 51 minutes. It was a marvelously entertaining 60 minutes of football and it's not surprising that Aodh Ruadh have the biggest total in the 'points for' column in the league so far. The slightly more worrying aspect is the points against column.
See the full match report and some class pictures.

Beaten by their Killybegs counterparts by 1-5 to 3-12, the reserves were badly burned by a 20 minute period in the first half when they were totally dominated by their opponents. Both sides were reasonably evenly matched in the opening ten minutes, but Killybegs took control of the game for the remainder of the half and overwhelmed Aodh Ruadh. There was a hugely improved performance in the second half from Ballyshannon when the homesters outscored Killybegs, but the damage had been done in the first half. Corner back Maurice Kane was good throughout the game as was Mickey Dolan. Diarmuid McInerney came more into things after the break and he was rewarded with a good goal. We have some shots of the action.

The third team had a handsome win against a neophyte Glenswilly outfit last Saturday. All the damage was done in the first 15 minutes when Aodh Ruadh put 2-4 on the board to no reply. Martin Gallagher and Sean Perry got Aodh Ruadh's opening goals in the first half to help the homesters to a 2-8 to 0-2 half time lead. David Finnerty and Val Murray with a penalty raised further green flags in the second half. Martin Kane, under the guidance of Paddy Kelly, had a fine game in midfield, while Maurice Kane continues to show he has plenty of football in him in the full back line. The final score of 4-11 to 0-5 cemented Aodh Ruadh's third win of the division five campaign. And what better and more fitting way for Ken Monaghan celebrate reaching 40 at the weekend! We have some shots from the game.

The senior, reserve and thirds fixtures for the coming weekend were not available at the time of mailing..

With All-Ireland fever sweeping the town thanks to the exploits of the county under 21s, the bunting has been going up and Ronan Matthews got a few shots of the colours going up. Also on that page is a picture of Aodh Ruadh and Donegal's Peter Boyle and Dublin attacker Gavin McIntyre. It transpires Gavin has Ballyshannon roots, but you'll have to check out the page to find out more. In all seriousness though, we wish all the very best to Peter and Donagh McIntyre as they represent the club on the All-Ireland stage in Kingspan Breffni Park this Saturday 1st May as they attempt to bring home Donegal's third ever All-Ireland under-21 title. The throw in for this date with history is at 7pm. Not to be missed.

Anagaire proved an unhappy hunting ground for Aodh Ruadh minors last Friday when they went down to 4-13 to 0-4 defeat against Naomh Mhuire. The lads never really got out of the traps in the first half, although there was a better performance in the second period. Gary Carty and Tommy Patton in the corners of the full back line were probably Aodh Ruadh's best performers on the night, while Ronan McGurrin accounted for all of the Ernesiders scoring return in the second half. The next assignment for the minors is at home to Naomh Columba this Friday. All players should be up at the park for 6pm.

Two games over the past two days have seen the conclusion of Aodh Ruadh's under 16 league campaign. Last Wednesday the lads were at home to Saint Naul's and they enjoyed a powerful 4-10 to 0-8 win over the Mountcharles side. Pauric Patton had a great game, while Kieran Keown had a fantastic game at full back. James Barron delivered a fine game with five or six points from play. Darren Gettins had a particularly good match at right half back, while his brother, Johnny, was in fluent scoring form notching up 2-3 of the Ernesiders total.
That victory made it a straight fight between Aodh Ruadh and Ardara on Monday evening to see who would go through to the Southern Divisional final against Kilcar. Ballyshannon played a superb game of football, but were just pipped by Ardara. The sending off of James Barron midway through the second half was the pivotal moment. Eamon McGrath and Pauric Patton were outstanding for Aodh Ruadh in the centre of the field, as was Fergal Meehan at right half forward. Fergal put himself about well and really took the game to his opponents. Johnny Gettins with 1-2 and David McGurrin with 1-4 were the homesters' primary scoring threats and both did well against tough defending. The Ballyshannon defence gave a mighty game and were strongly lead by Kieran Keown. However Ardara were the ones to edge it in the end on a score line of 2-10 to 2-11.
There is an opportunity for revenge close at hand for the under 16s, though. They face Ardara away in the championship on Wednesday 12th May in what promises to be another mammoth battle.

The southern divisional Féile final will take place in Donegal Town at 7.00pm on Wednesday 28th April. Participating along with Aodh Ruadh will be Kilcar and Dungloe. The winners will go forward to play Saint Eunan's in the county final the following week.

The under 13s travel to Glenties to take on Naomh Conaill on Monday, 3rd May, throw-in at 6.30pm.

Training for under 12s, 13 and 14s takes place this Wednesday and Friday at 4.30pm up at the park.

Under 10 training continues at Father Tierney park this Saturday at 11.45am. Training runs from 12 noon to 1pm. Just to children should be collected promptly following training.

Training for all under 6s and under 8s is outdoors in the school field at Colaiste Cholmcille this Saturday at 11am. Our game with Dromore will now take place Saturday 22nd May at 12 noon in Dromore. Further details closer to the time.

~ HURLING ~
The under 16s drew away with Knocks in the Fermanagh League last Friday. It was a much improved performance. The under 16 Alan Ryan / Seamus Grimes Tournament is being held on Bank Holiday Monday. Play begins at 11am. Competing teams are Coolera / Strandhill, Lisbellaw, Saint Eunan's and Aodh Ruadh.

The under 14s are playing Saint Eunan's in the county league semi-final in Father Tierney Park on Thursday. Players to be up at the park for 6pm sharp. We are also taking part in Ulster Féile in Randalstown, county Antrim on Saturday, 1st May. Full details will be supplied in due course. Preparations are under way for the trip to Féile na nGael on 18th June. We are being hosted by Parteen. It is our first time qualifying for this event and a great weekend's hurling is assured. If any business wishes to make a donation to contribute to the cost of the trip, please contact John Rooney (086-2587793).

We hosted an under 10 blitz on Sunday last against Four Masters. We had 16 under 10 players in action during this blitz and all did very well.

Underage training continues every Sunday at 12 noon.

~ LADIES ~
The Aodh Ruadh Senior Ladies managed to maintain their unbeaten record in the league last Sunday when they had a good win over Convoy, the game finishing 5-11 to 1-5. The next league game will be at home to Glenties next weekend. Time and date yet to be confirmed and time of sending.

The under 16 ladies commence their 2010 campaign this Tuesday, 27th April at 6pm when they travel to Saint Naul's, Mountcharles. All players are asked to be at the park for 5pm on Tuesday evening.

The under 14 team travelled to Letterkenny on Sunday afternoon for a challenge game. It was a very tough game, in which all players put in a good performance. The game finished Saint Eunan's 1-10 Aodh Ruadh 1-6. The under 14s next outing in the league is away to Four Masters this week. Time and date yet to be confirmed and time of sending.

Well done to all the girls who travelled to Mountcharles last Saturday, 24th April, for our first in a series of four blitzes. There was a great effort and performance shown by all the girls who played their hearts out to the very end. We fielded two teams, one nine-a-side and one seven-a-side and played to the Go Games Rules. Every player got maximum playing time. The girls and mentors really enjoyed their first outing. Have a look at the team picture of the girls before action got underway in Mountcharles. Our second blitz will be hosted by Four Masters in Donegal Town this Saturday, 1st May. The bus will be leaving Father Tierney Park at 10.15am sharp. The third blitz will be hosted by Aodh Ruadh on Saturday, 15th May and then away to Glenties on Saturday, 29th May for the final Blitz.

Under 12 training continues on Wednesday and Friday evenings at 5.30pm. We have some great pictures taken at last Friday's training.

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MAY

4 May

~ LÁ NA gCLUB ~
Lá na gClub is back again this year on Sunday 9th May. Aodh Ruadh has planned an action-packed day of fun and games for young and old. Everyone in Ballyshannon, no matter your background, is invited to come and make Father Tierney park their own for the day..

~ FOOTBALL ~
The seniors were defeated 1-15 to 0-12 by Fanad Gaels on Bank Holiday Monday. It was a game where Aodh Ruadh only found their groove in the second half. They suffered the loss through injury of Johnny Gallagher and Michael Ward early in the first half and minors, Ronan McGurrin and Matthew 'Turkey' Thompson and Peter Boyle all fielded and gave impressive performances in trying circumstances.

In a topsy-turvy game, Aodh Ruadh reserves were unfortunate to come away from Portsalon with just a share of the points. Down by seven points at one stage, they were two up with just a couple of minutes left on the clock only to be pegged back by Fanad to 2-9 to 1-12. Ronan McGurrin got the Ernesiders goal as well as bagging a couple of points. McGurrin enjoyed had a fruitful partnership with Turkey Thompson in the middle of the field. In defence Stephen Bradley and Mickey Dolan were solid as always while up front Barry Travers soldiered effectively at half forward and James McIntyre did well in the play-maker role. Joe Watson was also a significant threat throughout.

The fixtures for the coming weekend see the seniors and reserves host Malin in Father Tierney Park on Saturday, 8th May. The reserve game throws in at 5pm and is followed by the seniors at 6.30pm. The thirds are also at home, they entertain Glenfin on Sunday, 9th May for their next game in division five. The throw in for that match is 6pm.

Commiserations to Peter Boyle, Donagh McIntyre and the Donegal team on their loss to Dublin in the under 21 All-Ireland final. It was not to be on the day, but the Peter and Donagh have brought great credit on themselves and club. Hopefully, this is just the beginning of the story for the pair and happier days on the football field remain to be met. We have some images from the day

The minors secured their first win of the league campaign with a hard-earned 4-5 to 2-8 victory over Naomh Columba. The Glen men were doughty opposition and Aodh Ruadh had to fight for the two points, particularly in the second half when the boys from in through mounted a determined come back. Best for Ballyshannon were Conor Patton at full back and Ronan Drummond during his stint in defence. Marcus Harley had a profitable spell in the middle of the field, chipping in with a point, while up front Ronan McGurrin lead the scoring with 2-2. Ruairi Drummond had a fine first half and finished the game with 1-1. Niall Murray with a goal and Ronan Drummond with a point finished out the scoring. Here are some pictures from the game. This Friday 7th May, the minors are back in action, this time against Ardara in Father Tierney Park with a throw-in of 7pm.

The under 16s face Ardara away in the championship on Wednesday 12th May in what promises to be another mammoth battle after just a single point separated the two teams during their league clash.

Aodh Ruadh’s under 14s are through the county Féile final against Saint Eunan’s for the second year in a row. At the time of writing, the latest information was that the game would be played on Saturday 8th May at 12 noon at a venue in the north of the county.

An understrength u-13 Aodh Ruadh side took a serious beating away to an excellent Naomh Conaill side on Bank Holiday Monday. The next assignment for the team is a trip to Mountcharles to take on Saint Naul's on Monday, 10th May. That game throws in at 6.30pm

The under 12s travel to Donegal town for a Go Games blitz against Four Masters on Friday 7th May. The blitz starts at 7pm

Training for under 12s, 13 and 14s takes place this Wednesday and Friday at 4.30pm up at the park.

Under 10 training continues at Father Tierney park this Saturday at 11.45am. Training runs from 12 noon to 1pm. Just to remind parents and guardians, children should be collected promptly following training.

~ HURLING ~
On Bank Holiday Monday the sun shone brightly upon Father Tierney Park and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh for the annually Seamus Grimes and Alan Ryan under 16 hurling tournament. The teams that took part were: Coolera / Strandhill, Lisbellaw, Saint Eunan's and Aodh Ruadh.
The Alan Ryan final was between Coolera / Strandhill and host club, Aodh Ruadh. The game started at a quick pace and both teams were evenly matched before the Sligo side's ability to score from long range enabled them to run out winner for the second year for a row.
The presentation took place in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh where Martin 'Kerry' Ryan on behalf of the Ryan and Grimes welcomed all teams to the annual tournament. John Rooney, Aodh Ruadh Juvenile Hurling Chairman, welcomed everyone to this tournament and thanked the Ryan and Grimes families for their support each year for this tournament. He spoke of the late Alan Ryan and Seamus Grimes and talked of their contributions to hurling in Aodh Ruadh.
Thanks to all who helped with the catering at the event and thanks also to Brian Drummond for his wonderful photography. See the full tournament report and Brian's photography.

The under 14s defeated Saint Eunan's last Thursday night to qualify for the county league final against Buncrana. No information on a date, time or venue yet.
On Saturday 1st May the under 14 hurlers travelled to Randalstown to take part in the Ulster Féile. They won all their game in a group that contained the hosts, Tir na nÓg Randalstown, Larne of Antrim, Pearse's of Antrim, Carryduff from Down and Naomh Cholmcille of Tyrone. That saw Aodh Ruadh qualify for the Ulster final in the Pearse Og grounds, Armagh City on May 15th. Well done to all the boys on a terrific days hurling. Check out some shots of the trip to Randalstown.
The under 14s have the first fund raiser for their trip to Féile this Saturday with a bag pack in Mace in the Saimer Court. We ask for a big show of support for this fund raiser. Thanks to Ballyshannon Credit Union for their donation of €250 for the boys' trip to Clare. We have pictures of the presentation on aodhruadh.org and the donation is very much appreciated. If any business wants to donate to this historic weekend for Aodh Ruadh under 14 hurlers, please contact If any business wishes to make a donation to contribute to the cost of the trip, please contact John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
Aodh Ruadh wish Donna Martin and the Donegal Ladies team all the very best in the league final which will take place next Saturday against Kildare in Parnell Park.

The under 16's were narrowly defeat by Saint Naul's last Tuesday in their first league outing this year. The next game will be against Ardara and is due to be played this Friday in Ballyshannon.

The under 14 girls will have no game this week. The next game will be next Tuesday at home to Four Masters. The time is yet to be confirmed.

The under 12s took part in the second Go Games blitz last Saturday, which was hosted by Four Masters. The next blitz will be hosted by Aodh Ruadh on Saturday 15th of May. Under 12 training continues on Wednesday and Friday evenings at 5.30pm.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
Our Child Protection night will take place on Friday, 7th May at 6.30pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.

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5 May

~ LÁ NA gCLUB ~
Lá na gClub is back again this year on Sunday 9th May. Aodh Ruadh has planned an action-packed day of fun and games for young and old. The day commences at 2pm with youth blitzes in hurling and football. After that the action moves over to Father Tierney Park where, subject to numbers, the activities will include:

A long puck competition for the older hurlers;
A penalty kick competition;
Underage races;
A ladies and gents long kick competition;
Novelty competitions including a wheel barrow race,
Adult and under 8 child piggy back race
Mother and Fathers relay.

The action concludes with an all-comers one mile race.

It all promises to be great fun and everyone in Ballyshannon and the surrounding area is invited to come and make the club their own for the day.

~ LADIES ~
The under 16 girls are in league action against Glenties tomorrow night, Wednesday 5th April at 6pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

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11 May

~ FOOTBALL ~
This coming weekend is all about the championship. It starts off on Saturday, 15th May, with the visit of Glenfin to Father Tierney Park to take on Aodh Ruadh in the Junior B Championship Preliminary first Leg. That game throws in at 6.00pm. That is followed by visit of Saint Eunan's on Sunday 16th May. The Senior Reserve Championship clash gets under way at 1.30pm, while Jimmy White will throw the ball in between the Senior sides at 3pm. This is a huge weekend for the club, a big showing of local support is always important in these games and we would appeal to Ballyshannon to come out and show their support as their local heroes attempt to topple the county champions, not neglecting, of course, the reserves and thirds.

Malin hold the Indian sign over Aodh Ruadh and they demonstrated that last Saturday when a combination of poor refereeing and a series of catastrophic injuries put paid to any hopes of a reversal of fortunes. Ballyshannon went in 0-7 to 0-5 up after an excellent first half where they gave a good, solid workmanlike display. In the second half the effect of bad injuries to Brian Roper, Stephen Ward and Philip O'Reilly eventually told. Nevertheless Aodh Ruadh played some lovely football, particularly when the ball was with David Dolan. Dolan was unlucky not to get a winning goal in the closing stages, his shot coming back off the woodwork. Peter Boyle was also excellent between the posts. It was Malin who took the points in the end, though, chalking up an impressive 0-10 to 1-9 away win. Here are some pictures from the game.

The reserves were one of the few Aodh Ruadh sides to register a win last week. They pipped Malin by 1-11 to 2-7, thanks primarily to a dogged defensive effort. Ruairí Drummond, Ronan Drummond and Brian McGuinness all made life very difficult for their Inishowen opponents. Up front Diarmuid McInerney was in good form, while Anthony Boyle was the pick of the attackers, sealing a good day out with a well-taken goal. Have a look at some of the action.

An understrength third team gave a good account of themselves against Glenfin on a fine Sunday evening in Father Tierney Park. The homesters were about eight points down at half time, but there was a particularly strong performance in the second half. Two goals from Val Murray put Aodh Ruadh within a whisker of getting a result, but time beat them and Glenfin were one point winners on a score line of 2-10 to 2-11. Apart from Val there was also good displays from Niall Thomas and Conor Thomas and Matthew Thompson.

The minors league record now reads, lost one, won one and drew one after sharing the points with Ardara in Father Tierney Park last Friday. As has been their habit, Aodh Ruadh got off to a bad start, but they battled back well to earn a share of the points. Within ten minutes of the throw-in Aodh Ruadh had conceded two goals. However, the Ernesiders never-say-die spirit didn't allow Ardara to run away with the game. Conor Patton had a great battle in the middle of the pitch with his Ardara opposite number, while Ronan Drummond at centre half back was in the thick of things and made a big impact. Ruairí Drummond is in a serious run of form at the moment and he capped another fine display here with a goal, Aodh Ruadh's second goal being bundled home by Stephen Clarke. In the end it fell to Peter Boyle to kick a pressure free to tie the game up at 2-11 to 3-8 and earn Ballyshannon a share of the points. We have some photographs from the game. The next action for the minors is on Friday week when they travel to Killybegs in the league.

The under 16s face Ardara away in the championship quarter final, first leg this Wednesday 12th May. This promises to be another mammoth battle after just a single point separated the two teams during their recent league clash. We appeal for a big show of white and green to make the trip to Ardara and cheer our boys on in this big game.

Aodh Ruadh were defeated 2-6 to 2-2 by a much taller and stronger Saint Eunan's side in the county Féile final. In truth the score line doesn't reflect the Letterkenny side's dominance as Colm Kelly crashed home two goals from frees in the closing moments to put a gloss on the result for the Ernesiders. Still, the lads had a great run through the competition and the experience of a good Féile run will be valuable for the league which gets under way on 2nd June against Four Masters.

The under 13s earned themselves a good win away to Mountcharles on Monday evening. They beat Saint Naul's by 3-4 to 6-7 after a closely fought first half where only a goal separated the sides. Many of the best performances came in defence where there were outstanding displays by Conor Kennedy at full back, Cookie O'Halloran at half back and Brendan Gillespie at centre half. Once again Oisín Rooney and Oisín Roper gave a dominant exhibition of football in midfield. Up front Shane McGrath, Philip Patton, Terry Ward all goaled and did very well in general play, but Shane Dorrian and Nathan Boyle shone on the night. The next engagement for the under 13s is at home to Ardara on Monday, 17th May at 6.30pm.

Training for under 12s, 13 and 14s takes place this Wednesday and Friday at 4.30pm up at the park.

The first under 10 blitz of the year takes place in Kilcar on Saturday 22nd May. The bus leaves the park at 9.30am sharp. Players should take a sensible packed lunch and dress appropriately for the weather conditions. A note will be issued to all players regarding details for this fixture. Training continues as usual this Saturday at 11.45am. Please note, children should be collected promptly at 1pm following training.

Training for all under 6s and under 8s is outdoors in the school field at Colaiste Cholmcille this Saturday at 11am. Our game with Dromore will now take place on Saturday 22nd May at 12 noon in Dromore. The bus will leave Colaiste Cholmcille at 10.30am and we should be back at the same venue for 2.30pm. All parents and family members are welcome to attend and any wishing to go should follow the bus up to Dromore. The club is located outside Omagh. Only children aged 6, 7, or 8 may attend this blitz. The children are asked to bring a drink, rain jacket, snack, runners, boots, club socks and shorts. We hope that some members of the Tyrone team will be there on the day to act as referees so players may want to bring a pen and paper for autographs. A special well done to our players of the week Troy, Ryan, Daniel and Ryan.

~ HURLING ~
The senior hurlers are out in the first round of the Secondary Hurling League this Wednesday 12th May. They take on Burt up in Father Tierney Park at 7.15pm.

Pride of place this week goes to our under 14 hurlers who for the second year in a row won the County A League title by defeating Buncrana in the final at O'Donnell Park, Letterkenny. The boys got off to a blistering start in a great all-round team effort and led at half time by 1-12 to 0-1. Buncrana, as expected, came back strongly in the second half, but our boys battled away and ran out winners on a score line of 1-16 to 2-3. This is another great achievement by this hard working team, winning back-to-back league titles a first for the club. Many thanks to all the supporters who travelled to Letterkenny and gave brilliant support to the team. A huge cavalcade through the town took place when the team came home followed by refreshments in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Many thanks to Karl Duggan for taking some shots of the historic occasion. The next assignment for this team is the Ulster Féile final in Armagh on Sunday against Gort na Mona of Belfast. Travel arrangements will be communicated during the week. The squad's hard work on and off the field was shown on Saturday when all the panel took part in a very successful bag packing fund raiser in Mace and many thanks have to Fred Ormston and all his staff for their help with this fundraiser. Many thanks to Ballyshannon Town Council for their very generous donation of €500 towards the Féile trip to Clare and to the ESB who donated €200. If any business wishes to make a donation to contribute to the cost of the trip, please contact John Rooney on 086-2587793.

Well done to the following who were all part of the county under 16 panel that took part in the Ulster blitz: Conor McNeely, Rory Cullen, Pat Faherty, Aaron Fannon and David O'Keefe.

Hard luck to Peter Horan who was part of the Donegal team who lost to Armagh in the Ulster championship on Saturday in Letterkenny. Chris Kilgannon was also part of the panel. Well done to Oisín Rooney who represented Creevy National School at half time in the Cumann na mBunscoil exhibition game against the Armagh schools at half time in the senior game.

Well done to all the young hurlers who took part in the blitzes for the Lá na gClub.

At long last the under 12s will get their season under way this Sunday either with a game in the Fermanagh league or an all county blitz in Letterkenny. Notes will be distributed during the week.

Training for all ages continues on Sunday at 12 noon.

~ LADIES ~
Aodh Ruadh congratulates Donna Martin and the Donegal Ladies team on winning the Intermediate League, when they beat Kildare last Saturday in the final in Parnell Park. Well done to all involved with the team.

The under 16s are training at the park on Friday at 4.30pm.

The under 14s will take on Four Masters at home on Tuesday evening, 11th May at 5.30pm.

Next Saturday Aodh Ruadh will host the third of the under 12 go games blitzes. The games will commence at 11.00 with teams coming from Mountcharles, Donegal Town and Glenties.

Under 12 training continues on Wednesday and Friday evenings at 5.30pm.

~ LÁ NA gCLUB ~
The second annual Lá na gClub took place on Sunday. It started at 2pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh with three pitches in action for the underage hurler and footballers. After the boys and girls had finished their games it was over to the park where there was a wide range of activity including underage races, an obstacle course which was a big hit with all the kids, a football penalty shoot, parent and child piggy back races and the hurling penalty with John Rooney as one of the targets, sorry goalies. All-in-all another great days craic and you can get a flavour for the day from the photographs on aodhruadh.org, there are over 60 up.

~ VOTES OF SYMPATHY ~
There were votes of sympathy at the last Aodh Ruadh monthly club meeting for Patsy Garvan, Lisahully; Dinny McCullagh, Donegal Road; The father of Tom Ayres, Broadford, County Kildare; and Mariah Gallagher, Bishop Street.

~ MEETING ~
There is a meeting of the club Finance Committee in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 9pm on Tuesday, 11th May. All committee members are asked to attend.

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14 May

~ LADIES ~
Aodh Ruadh would like to wish Tara Khan, Dearbhaile McNeill and Anna Rafferty all the very best of luck as they take on Down in the Ulster minor final in Truagh, county Monaghan at 3pm on Saturday.

~ CÁIRDE AOIDH RUAIDH ~
On Saturday Aodh Ruadh launches its major fundraising initiative for 2010, Cairde Aoidh Ruadh - Friends of Aodh Ruadh. The launch takes place this Saturday, 15th May, at 8pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. There will be finger food to begin followed by a presentation of the scheme and a then a question and answer session. Come along and support us as we continue developing the stars of the future and building a club Ballyshannon can be proud of. You can help by becoming a friend of Aodh Ruadh and donating just €5 a week.

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18 May

~ CAIRDE AOIDH RUAIDH ~
The club launched their major fund raising initiative for 2010 in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh last Saturday night. The scheme, which is entitled Cairde Aoidh Ruaidh, asks club members to sign up to donate the equivalent of €5 a week to the club in the form of a monthly direct debit. Presentations were made by Ryan Feeny of the Ulster Council and Club Secretary John Hughes on the merits of the scheme and how it works. Right now we are appealing to club members to get behind the scheme. It is essential for the club's financial welfare, which is in a precarious state. To get some information on the scheme you can download the brochure. This brochure also includes the standing order form for the scheme. If anyone needs any further information don't hesitate to contact us on info@aodhruadh.org or call 087-6431805.

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh will travel to O'Donnell park needing win to keep their championship hopes alive after a 0-8 v 1-11 to Saint Eunan's. Aodh Ruadh had the best of the first half, but their profligacy up front meant that they went in with a mere one point advantage rather than the more substantial cushion they should have had if they had taken their scores. Best for Aodh Ruadh were Johnny Gallagher, Darren Drummond and Packie McGrath in the defence. Ronan McGurrin also showed up with a few good touches. In the attack David Dolan looked very good on the 40, while Sticky Ward never wavered in the cause. In the final analysis, it was a terrific effort from the team and it was clear when they came off they had given every ounce. We have a full match report and photography from the game

The reserves might have down against Saint Eunan's in their first round, first leg game, but the 0-6 to 3-7 score line was a rather unfair reflection on what was a battling performance by the homesters. The game was very tight in the first half and only turned against Aodh Ruadh towards the end of the half. Firstly fortune deserted Aodh Ruadh as Fiachra McIntyre's fisted just went narrowly the wrong side of post. Then moments last Joe Watson was struck in the penalty area. The referee elected to ignore the penalty shout and from there in Aodh Ruadh were fighting a rearguard action. Best for Aodh Ruadh on the day were Simon Gillespie in at full back where he was ably assisted in his defensive duties by Ronan Drummond and Conor Patton. Up front Joe Watson never gave up and Fiachra McIntyre was an effective threat. We have some pictures from that game up.

The demoralizing weekend of championship action got off to a bizarre start on Saturday when the thirds were defeated by Glenfin on a score line of 4-8 to 3-13 in the Junior B championship. This was a game where Aodh Ruadh went in at the break leading by eight points after playing some very, good intelligent football with the aid of a slight breeze. However Aodh Ruadh just couldn't get going in the second half and everything Glenfin touched seemed to turn to gold. Brian Dorrian was the pick of the Aodh Ruadh defenders. In terms of attacking play David Downey had a very good shift and registered a goal, while the brothers Perry, Sean and Steven were also very active. Steven goaled in the first half and added a second in the dying moments of the game when a skyscraper of a shot from him bombed down through the hands of a static Glenfin goalkeeper and into the net. We have pictures from the encounter up.

The fixtures for the coming weekend see the thirds make the trip to Dunfanaghy on Saturday 22nd May to take on Saint Michael's. That game throws in at 6.30pm. Meanwhile the secondary league, intended to give players football while the county is in full swing, gets underway this Sunday, 23rd May when Aodh Ruadh host Naomh Bríd at 3.00pm in Father Tierney park.

The minors lost their penultimate game of the league away to Glenties by 2-11 to 1-7. It was a decent showing against a strong Naomh Conaill outfit. Defensively Ronan Drummond and Kieran Keown were both very effective. Ruairí Drummond at full forward was probably the pick of the attackers, while Niall Murray and Peter Boyle from placed ball both weighed in with scores. Boyle also set up James Kelly for the Aodh Ruadh goal. The minors will wrap up their league season with another away trip, this time to Killybegs on Friday 21st May, the throw in is at 7.30pm.

The under 16s made an almighty battle of it as they lost by 0-15 to 1-8 away to Ardara in the first round first leg of the championship. It was a good performance in general. Pauric Patton played out of his skin in the middle of the field. Meanwhile Kieran Keown was very solid at full back as was Matthew Gettins in the corner In the attack Fergal Meehan did well and was very creative. Johnny Gethins top scored in the scoring stakes with 1-4, closely followed by David McGurrin on four points while James Barron and James Kelly both chipped in with a point apiece. This result means they now have to win in Father Tierney park this Wednesday 19th May to force the tie to a play-off and going on their away performance that is something that eminently within their capacity. We appeal for a big show of white and green to make the trip to Ardara and cheer our boys on in this massive game. The game throws in at 7.30pm, don't miss it.

In a change from last week's notes the under 13s in action against Ardara this Tuesday, 18th May at 6pm in Father Tierney Park. The lads will conclude their season with an away game against Four Masters on Monday 24th May at 7.30pm.

Training for under 12s, 13 and 14s takes place this Wednesday at 4.30pm up at the park.

Please note that our under 8 blitz against Dromore has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. Apologies for any confusion. Training will continue as normal next Saturday at 11am. Well done to this week's players of the week James, Nathan and Kyle.

~ HURLING ~
The under 16s had a comprehensive victory over Knocks in the Fermanagh league in Father Tierney park on Sunday last. It was a good team performance and sets them up well in the Fermanagh league.

Congratulations to our under 14 hurlers who won their Féile Uladh final in the Pearse Og grounds, Armagh city. The boys played Gort na Mona of Belfast in the final. We began very nervously and the Belfast boys were well up for this final. We found ourselves behind 1-2 to no score after five minutes. Our boys began getting into the game and showing their determination and the work rate for which they are renowned and slowly clawed their way back and led at half time by 2-1 to 1-2. The Aodh Ruadh boys dominated the second half and played the hurling they are capable of and ran out worthy winners 3-8 to 1-2. It was a great occasion for our lads to play in front of the major hurling clubs of Ulster. The skill and never-say-die attitude of this team was commented on by many at the final. The success of this team has been achieved by four years of hard work. Many thanks to all the parents who met the Ulster champions on their return to Ballyshannon and took part in the cavalcade around the town. Check Eddie Lynch's shots of the final. The boys continue their fundraising for their trip to Clare for the All-Ireland Féile tournament this June by bag packing this Saturday in the Supervalu in Bundoran. Many thanks to Joan Roohan of JR's café, Ballyshannon Town Council and Brian McEniff of the Great Northern Hotel for their donations to the trip to Féile na Gael. We have a picture of the JR's café and Ballyshannon Town Council cheque presentation. The under 14s play Four Masters in the championship quarter final on Thursday in Donegal Town. Arrangements for this match will be finalized at training.

The under 12s began their season last Thursday with a win at home against MacCumhaill's in difficult conditions. We have some pictures from that game. On Sunday the under 12s travelled to Lisbellaw to play in the first round of the Fermanagh league. We put in a very poor overall team performance and lost the game 4-6 to 4-4. This panel will have to improve their work rate for the rest of the season and hopefully they will rise to the challenge.

The under 10s have a blitz this Sunday. Details will be supplied to players during the week.

Training for all ages continues on Sunday at 12 noon.

~ LADIES ~
A huge well done to Tara Khan and Dearbhaile McNeill who represented Aodh Ruadh on the Donegal Minor team that beat Down on Saturday by 3-11 to 1-5 in the Ulster Final. We have a full match report.

The under 16s will take on Four Masters in Donegal town this Tuesday, 18th May at 6.30pm.

The under 14s had a good win over Four Masters last week, with all players giving really good performances. The next game will be away to Saint Naul's. There were no details to hand at the time of mailing.

Aodh Ruadh ladies hosted an under 12 go games blitz on Saturday, with teams travelling from Donegal town, Mountcharles and Glenties. The Ladies club would like to thank all who helped out on the day and all who prepared the refreshments for this event. Have a look at some pictures of the action. Next Saturday, 22nd May, Aodh Ruadh will host the under 12 community games blitz at 11am. If you're able to come along and help out, in whatever capacity, We would be very grateful to see you!

Under 12 training continues on Wednesday at 5.30pm.

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20 May

~ DONEGAL V DOWN ~
Donegal v Down on Sunday 30th May is NOT an all ticket fixture. Tickets will be needed for the stand only. If anyone has orders for stand tickets they need to be with the Club Secretary, John Hughes, by 9am on Monday 24th May. Orders can be made to info@aodhruadh.org or by text to 087-6993506.

Prices for the stand are as follows:
Covered Stand - €27 / £23
Uncovered Stand Adult - €25 / £21 (This is a family area)
Uncovered Stand Juvenille - €5 / £5
Uncovered Stand Senior Citizen - €15 / £13 (Only 50 of these seats are available.)

Admission to the Terrace will be pay in on the day at the following rates:
Adult - €15 / £13
Juvenilles U16 are free
Senior Citizen - €10 / £9

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh's under 14 hurling team and management gratefully acknowledge a contribution of €200 from Ballyshannon ESB towards their trip to Clare to participate in the national hurling Féile. We have some pictures from the presentation on Tuesday 18th May.

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25 May

~ CLUB MEETINGS ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 27th May in dressing room three in the park at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place on Tuesday 25th May in Aras Aoidh Ruadh at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

There will be a meeting of the Cairde Aoidh Ruaidh committee this Tuesday, 25th May, in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 8.30pm. Anyone interested in the club's financial well-being is also very welcome to attend.

~ FOOTBALL ~
It was a young and experimental Aodh Ruadh senior team which took to the field for a young and experimental competition last Sunday. With a smattering of regular seniors lining up, there were a lot of new faces on show for the secondary senior football league derby against Naomh Bríd. They battled well against a hungrier Naomh Bríd side, Diarmuid McInerney palming in a goal palmed in after a good save from their keeper. However it was the Ballintra/Laghey boys that went away with the points after a 1-9 to 2-12 win in a sun splashed Father Tierney Park. We have some pictures from the game.

The thirds mounted a fantastic come back in the second half of their division five clash with Saint Michaels last Saturday to come away from Dunfanaghy with the points. They were seven points down, but a brilliant recovery saw them home on a score line of 3-6 to 3-10. There was goals from Steven Perry, Sean Perry and Christy Dolan. Christy and David Downey in the middle of the pitch were key to turning the game around, catching an ocean of ball. In the defence Gerard Ferguson had a fine game and helped keep the Ernesiders in the tie. That result puts Ballyshannon third in division five on eight points behind MacCumhaill's and Glenfin who are tied on 12 points.

The fixtures for the coming weekend see the seniors back in Secondary League Group A action this Saturday when they host MacCumhaill's in Father Tierney Park at 6.30pm. On Sunday 30th May the thirds are slated for division five action against Malin in Father Tierney park at 6pm.

The minors concluded their league programme with a fine 0-6 to 3-19 away win over Killybegs last Friday. It was a good overall performance with Peter Boyle at wing half forward, Ruairí Drummond, Ronan McGurrin and Alan Finan all shining for the Ernesiders. Aodh Ruadh were in control from the off and goals from Stephen Clarke, Ruairí Drummond and Peter Boyle helped Ballyshannon home in some comfort. After finishing third from six and won two, lost two and drawn one, this league has marked another step in the slow improvement of the clubs underage fortunes. The minors now have a break until 21st July when they take on Four Masters in Tir Chonaill park in the first round first leg of the minor championship.

Last Wednesday the under 16s of Aodh Ruadh and Ardara fought out a tempestuous championship contest in Father Tierney Park. Thankfully it was Ballyshannon who came away with a 2-10 to 1-12 win forcing the first round tie to a play-off game. Aodh Ruadh started the game very strongly, notching up 1-3 in the first 15 minutes. The goal came from a defence splitting ball by Johnny Gettins over the top which found James Kelly and he made no mistake when the chance presented itself. Thereafter however Ardara took over and hit 1-4 without reply to send the sides in at 1-3 to 1-5 at the break. Ardara picked up where the left off at half time, chipping over two points before Aodh Ruadh got a handle on things and pulled back the deficit back to two points. Ardara responded in kind and edged ahead with two further points to go four points up with ten minutes left. Then tide turned in dying moments of the match as Aodh Ruadh began to apply serious pressure. First off, David McGurrin pointed a free and then James Barron fired over a super score from play. Then, through serious hard work from the forwards, especially James Barron, Aodh Ruadh turned over a ball and it found its way to Ryan Granaghan. Ryan hit a ball over the top to James Kelly and once again he finished to the net to put the Ernesiders a point up with two minutes left. It was a fraught final couple of moments, but Ballyshannon held on to force the play-off. Defensively, Kieran Keown Marcus Harley and Darren Gettins all put in serious performances. In the centre of the pitch Pauric Patton and Eamon McGrath worked hard throughout. Up front David McGurrin and James Barron were the stand-out performers for the homesters. The play-off between Aodh Ruadh and Ardara in the under 16 championship has been set for Wednesday, 26th at 7.30pm in Dunkineely. The lads have really put everything in and the very least they deserve is a big show of support in Dunkineely this Wednesday. Make sure you get there and help roar our boys on.

There was mixed fortunes for the under 13 over the past week. Last Wednesday they had a great win over Ardara in Father Tierney Park. They got off to a horrendous start going down by 2-5 early on in the game before clawing themselves back into the tie to win by four points on a final score line of 4-11 to 3-10. It was a match where the attack really stepped up to the mark and Shane McGrath, Nathan Boyle and Philip Patton all delivered big performances. Elsewhere Oisín Rooney at midfield and Conor Kennedy at full back also made big contributions to turning the game around. On Monday evening Ballyshannon came out on the wrong end of the result with Four Masters winning by 4-7 to 3-6. It was nip and tuck throughout, but Four Masters just edged ahead in the final moments. Oisín Rooney did well when moved to full back where he got good assistance from Brendan Gillespie at wing back and Jason Granaghan at corner back. Up from Ryan Gallagher and Garret Sheerin never gave up and gave fighting displays. That game completes the under 13s league season, a season where they finished third, just outside the league final spots.

The under 12s travel to Ballintra on Saturday for a Go Games blitz with Naomh Bríd. The action gets under way there at 7pm.

Training for under 12s, 13 and 14s takes place this Wednesday at 4.30pm up at the park.

The under 10s played Bundoran, Naomh Conaill and Kilcar at the blitz in Kilcar last Saturday and acquitted themselves very well. The team were happy with their day out and thank to Kilcar for their smooth organisation of the blitz.

Under 6 and under 6 training continues this Saturday at 11am in the school field. Well done to our player of the week Kyle McCafferty and to our gold star champions JJ, Oisín and James.

~ HURLING ~
Well done Eddie Lynch and Colm Kelly who came second and fourth in the county Féile skills competition in Letterkenny on Sunday. Kieran Kelly also took part and did very well considering he is underage again next year. There's a picture of the lads on aodhruadh.org. We have a picture of the lads. Good luck to the under 14 hurlers who play Buncrana in the county championship semi-final in Father Tierney Park on Thursday at 7pm. All support is very welcome. Many thanks to Des Cosgrove, Colm Drummond and all the staff in Supervalu, Bundoran for being so helpful with our bag pack for the trip to Féile last Saturday.

The under 10s took part in a blitz at Saint Eunan's on Sunday past. We had two teams taking part and both did very well. On Monday evening they took part in the Community Games county final against Burt. They lost but, despite getting off to a slow start, they competed well throughout.

This Sunday we host an under 8 blitz. All players to be up at the park for 10am.

Any parent of any underage hurler who wishes to buy a subsidised helmet can contact any underage manager or John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies suffered a heavy defeat to a strong Malin side on Sunday morning up in Inishowen, however they were playing without many of the team's key players who were unavailable due to exams. The ladies will commence their 2010 championship campaign next Saturday evening, 1st May, in Glencolmcille. The time hadn't been confirmed at time of mailing. A time will be posted on aodhruadh.org as soon as we hear of it.

The under 16s were defeated by Four Masters last week. In a very tight game they were unlucky to be beaten by the narrowest of margins. They have no game this week. Training will continue on Wednesday at 7pm and Friday at 4.30pm.

Well done to the under 14s who had a good win against Saint Naul's on Saturday. Their training takes place at 7pm on Wednesday evening.

This Saturday the under 12s will take part in the last Go Games blitz in Glenties at 2pm.

~ CAIRDE AOIDH RUAIDH ~
There will be a meeting of the Cairde Aoidh Ruaidh committee this Tuesday, 25th May, in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 8.30pm. As you may have heard, the club has launched their major fund raising initiative for 2010. The scheme, entitled Cairde Aoidh Ruaidh, asks club members to sign up and donate the equivalent of €5 a week to the club in the form of a monthly direct debit. We are appealing to club members to get behind the scheme. It is essential for the club's financial welfare, which is in a precarious state. To get some information on the scheme you can download the brochure. This brochure also includes the standing order form for the scheme. If anyone needs any further information don't hesitate to contact us on info@aodhruadh.org or call 087-6431805.

~ PUB QUIZ ~
The last pub quiz of the season in Owen Roe's this weekend is in aid of Aodh Ruadh so we appeal for all club members, in whatever discipline or capacity to come out and support the quiz this week. It gets under way at 10pm in Owen Roe's with Sylvester Maguire doing his Magnus Magnusson impression and plenty of prizes on offer.

~ CPR TRAINING ~
Bayview Primary Care Team Ballyshannon are hosting a mass CPR training event on Wednesday 26th May in Dorrian's Hotel from 7pm to 9pm. If you are interested in attending the Heartsaver CPR for Family and Friends' course, which is offered by the Community Resuscitation Service then please contact 071-985269 or 087-9682067 and give your name and details. Remember CPR can mean the difference between life and death and it is vital that as many people as possible get trained.

~ DONEGAL V DOWN ~
Donegal v Down on Sunday 30th May is NOT an all ticket fixture. Tickets will be needed for the stand only.
Prices for the stand are as follows:
Covered Stand - €27 / £23
Uncovered Stand Adult - €25 / £21 (This is a family area)
Uncovered Stand Juveniles - €5 / £5
Uncovered Stand Senior Citizen - €15 / £13 (Only 50 of these seats are available.)

Admission to the Terrace will be pay in on the day at the following rates:
Adult - €15 / £13
Juveniles U16 are free
Senior Citizen - €10 / £9

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JUNE

1 June

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh overcame a bright opening by MacCumhaill's to run out 1-14 to 1-6 winners against Ballybofey in Father Tierney Park. A well-worked goal from Ciron Whoriskey helped Aodh Ruadh overcome MacCumhaill's early flurry to go in with a six point cushion at half time. Defensively, Johnny Gallagher was in typically composed form, while Fiachra McIntyre got through an ocean of work at midfield. Turlough McIntyre had a fine match in the forward line and worked very hard as Sticky Ward was his ever consistent self. We have some pictures from the game.

Aodh Ruadh had a fine 5-21 to 3-3 win over Malin in Senior Football Division 5 last Saturday. While Liam Devanney scored no fewer than three of the homesters' goals, Ballyshannon's man of the match was probably Martin Gallagher who was very dominant in midfield. Elsewhere Val Murray very accurate up front while David O'Donnell was very secure at full back. Check out the action.

The fixtures for the coming weekend are still being teased out, but all involve trips to Glenfin. There will be a mail when we have confirmation on days and times. One date for the diary though. The seniors and reserves are in first round, second leg championship action on Saturday, 12th June against Saint Eunan's. The reserve game will throw in at 5.30pm, followed by the senior game at 7pm.

Aodh Ruadh won a memorable play-off victory over Ardara in the under 16 championship first round last Wednesday. Played in Dunkineely, the Ballyshannon boys secured their place in the Southern divisional semi-final on a score line of 1-15 to 1-8. Ardara got off to a great start with an early goal, but Aodh Ruadh clawed back the difference to level the game up at 1-3 to 0-6. Defender Colm Kelly was exceptional in the first half cutting out a lot of ball to help keep Aodh Ruadh in the tie. The tide started to turn in Ballyshannon's favour in the second half when they got on top in the middle third. James Barron, in particular, delivered a career best performance which he garnished with two points. Pauric Patton also picked up a lot of ball at midfield and fired over a point. James Kelly top scored for Aodh Ruadh with a goal and three points to his credit, while David McGurrin with three points and Johnny Gettins with two also made big contributions. There was a great spread of scorers in the game with Fergal Meehan and Alan Finan also getting on the score sheet with a point apiece. At the back Kieran Keown and Eamon McGrath showed a good understanding and Keown capped his performance with a point. All in all it was a powerful team effort from Aodh Ruadh and one of the highlights of the year to date. They will play Naomh Mhuire in that semi-final on Friday, 9th July, in a straight knock out game in a neutral venue.

The under 14s are in league action this Wednesday when they take on Four Masters in Father Tierney park at 7.30pm. Players to be up at the park for 6.30pm.

Training for under 12s takes place this Wednesday and Friday at 4.30pm up at the park.

Under 8 training continues this Saturday at 11am at the school field. Well done to our players of the week Michael Doogan and Tiernan Carron. On Saturday 12th June have an under 8 game against Saint Eunan's from 11.30am to 12.30pm in O'Donnell park, Letterkenny. Players to be at Colaiste Cholmcille for 9.45am as the bus is leaving promptly at 10am. We should be back at Colaiste Cholmcille for 1.45pm. Players should have their club colours socks and shorts as well as a rain jacket.

~ HURLING ~
A provision fixture has been made in the Secondary Hurling League for Wednesday 9th June between Aodh Ruadh and Saint Eunan's. Throw in is set for 7.15pm.

Good luck to Peter Horan, Aidan Begley and Chris Kilgannon who are part of the Donegal panel who play Longford in the Nicky Rackard cup in Letterkenny this Saturday.

Under 14 hurlers had a great win at home in the county semi final on Thursday last against their great rivals Buncrana. In a great team performance the boys ran out winners by 2-8 to 0-6 to set up a meeting with Burt in the county final in O'Donnell park, Letterkenny this Thursday. Preparations are well underway for our under 14s trip to Clare for Féile na nGael any business or individual who would like to make a donation to this historic trip please contact John Rooney on 086-2587793.

Well done to Tommy Gillespie, Eamon McGrath and Conor Gilmartin who were part of the Donegal under 15 development squad that took part in a blitz in Belfast on Saturday.

The under 12s had a brilliant game with Lisbellaw in terrible conditions on Monday night. All games between the two teams are always very close and this was no different. The Fermanagh men were seven points up at half time, but the Aodh Ruadh boys battled back and gained a valuable draw in this Fermanagh League game.

Our under 8s played a number of challenge games with Lisbellaw in Father Tierney park on Sunday. It was a very enjoyable blitz and thanks to all the parents who supported the young hurlers and catered for all afterwards.

Training for all ages continues on Sunday at 12 noon. Any parent of any underage hurler who wishes to buy a subsidised helmet can contact any underage manager or John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
The Intermediate Ladies had a good win in the first round of the championship on Saturday evening in Glencolmcille. After a very tough game the final score was 2-10 to 1-03. However the score line didn't reflect how close match was. Naomh Columba squandered a number of scoreable chances and it is was Aodh Ruadh's precision in front of the posts that made the difference. Elaine Dorrian was in excellent form at full forward and she in got one of the Ballyshannon goals, Donna Martin got the other from centre half forward. Dearbhaile McNeill was another who had her shooting boots with her in the forward line. The spine of the team played particularly well with Sarah Patton at midfield, Tara Khan at centre back and captain Niamh Gallagher at full back all giving fine performances. Marita Maguire made a number of good saves which also contributed to the handsome score line. Given that the victory came in the absence of Tanya O'Shea and Anna Rafferty it is all the more creditable. The home leg of the championship is set for the weekend of the 26th June. The club wants to wish Katie Flood all the best as she heads of to the States on her travels for three months. Hopefully she'll be back for the final! Training continues every Tuesday and Thursday at 7pm.

The under 14s had a good win against Naomh Columba last Friday evening. We have some pictures from the game. They are due to play their last league game this Friday at home against Naomh Bríd / Pettigo. Well done to Maeve Liston who lined out for Donegal under 14s in the All Ireland semi-final against Kildare on Saturday, unfortunately they were defeated on the day.

Under 12 training continues on Wednesday evening at 7pm. Well done to the girls who travelled to Glenties to take part in the last of the Go Games blitz.

~ CAIRDE AOIDH RUAIDH ~
the club has launched their major fund raising initiative for 2010. The scheme, entitled Cairde Aoidh Ruaidh, asks club members to sign up and donate the equivalent of €5 a week to the club in the form of a monthly direct debit. We are appealing to club members to get behind the scheme. It is essential for the club's financial welfare, which is in a precarious state. To get some information on the scheme you can download the brochure. This brochure also includes the standing order form for the scheme. If anyone needs any further information don't hesitate to contact us on info@aodhruadh.org or call 087-6431805.

~ PUB QUIZ ~
Many thanks to everyone who turned out for last week's pub quiz in Owen Roe's. It was a great night's craic and we raised over €400 for the club. Thanks once again.

Back to the top

8 June

~ FOOTBALL ~
A shadow Aodh Ruadh senior team took on a strong Glenfin side last Saturday evening. Despite a valiant effort Aodh Ruadh were bested by 2-12 to 0-10. Best for Aodh Ruadh were the Michael Wards - Michael at corner back continues to impress, while Sticky lead the line up front with his customary élan. The reserves face Glenfin this Tuesday, 8th June, at 7.30pm up in Páirc Ghleann Fhinne. After that it's all about the championship action this Sunday. Both our reserves and seniors go into their meetings with Saint Eunan's needing a win to keep their championship hopes alive. The reserve game throws in at O'Donnell park, Letterkenny at 1.30pm followed by the seniors at 3pm. These are massive games for our marquee teams so we would appreciate a big show of green and white at O'Donnell park to get behind the boys.

The thirds goaled their way to a play-off game against Glenfin last Saturday. They got off the mark early with two quick goals within minutes of the throw in leaving the homesters playing catch-up for the remainder of the game. Stephen Perry was in particularly rapacious form and Glenfin just couldn't cope with him. He notched up a goal and a few points. The other goal scorers were Sean Perry, Val Murray and David Downey. Martin Gallagher and Paddy Kelly both had good strong games in the middle of the field while in defence David McLoone got through a power of work. In the end Aodh Ruadh ran out 0-10 to 4-7 winners to force a first round play-off tie. There has been no fixture slated for the third team this weekend.

Aodh Ruadh's under 14s got their season off to a winning start with victory over Four Master in Father Tierney park on Wednesday evening. The first half was a tight enough affair as the teams tried to work each other out. Aodh Ruadh got the better of that process, going in leading by 2-4 to 1-1 at the half time break. In the second half the Ernesiders took command of the tie to run out convincing winners by 4-9 to 1-2. We have an extended report and lots of pictures from the match. The long trip to Dungloe on Bank Holiday Monday proved rather more challenging with the Ernesiders slipping to a 3-8 to 1-6 defeat. Aodh Ruadh traveled with a somewhat depleted team, but despite an early own goal fought their way back into the game to be still in contention at half time. In the second half Aodh Ruadh's weaker cutting edge told against them and Dungloe were able to see the game out. Aodh Ruadh's best performances came in defence where Matthew Maguire and Eddie Lynch both played with great heart and conviction. A special mention also to Jack Darban who deputised in nets and did a did a fine job in tricky circumstances. The next match for the under 14s is a home game against Kilcar next Monday, 14th June at 7.30pm. There is training this Wednesday at 6pm.

The Under 12 Willie Rogers takes place this Saturday in Father Tierney Park and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Confirmed participants include Aodh Ruadh, Erne Gaels, and Bundoran. Action throws in at 11am. Training for under 12s takes place this Wednesday and Friday at 4.30pm up at the park.

Under 10 training continues this Saturday up at the park at 11.45am. The next competitive action will be the Mick Shannon blitz on, 26th June with Killybegs, Ardara, Kilcar and Four Masters due to travel to Ballyshannon.

Our under 8s travel to O'Donnell park, Letterkenny this Saturday. The bus leaves Colaiste Cholmcille at 10am. Please have children present at 9.45am. Our game will take place at 11.30am in O'Donnell Park against Saint Eunan's. The games will finish at 12.30. We should be back in Ballyshannon between 1.45pm and 2.00pm. Players should have their club shorts and socks as well as a rain jacket in case of bad weather. If you have any queries please contact Simon on 086-1082554.

Under 6 training continues as usual from 11am to 12noon on Saturday. Well done to last week's players of the week Gavin and Michael.

~ HURLING ~
There is Secondary Hurling League this Wednesday 9th June between Aodh Ruadh and Saint Eunan's in Father Tierney Park. Throw in is set for 7.15pm.

Congratulations to Peter Horan, Aidan Begley and Chris Kilgannon were part of the Donegal panel that beat Longford 3-13 to 1-15 in the Nicky Rackard cup in Letterkenny last Saturday.

Our under 14s completed the league and championship double for the second year in a row by beating Burt in the championship final in O'Donnell Park, Letterkenny on Thursday last by 5-9 to 1-3. This was a great win for this hard-working, dedicated team. On a perfect evening for hurling, the boys made a great start and all players gave their all. Aodh Ruadh got off to a great start and led at halftime 2-7 to 0-0. Typical of Burt and their great tradition they made a great start to the second half and the first ten minutes was end-to-end stuff with some great play by both teams. Eventually the Aodh Ruadh men wore down the Inishowen men and ran out comfortable winners by six goals. All credit to the Burt men who battled right to the end. One of the most pleasing aspects of this victory was the fact that all 20 Aodh Ruadh players got playing in the game.

At the final whistle our loyal supporters were over the moon that the lads completed the double double and there were great scenes of celebration as Emma Gaughan, on behalf of the Donegal Hurling Board, presented the cup to winning captain Ciaran Rami. Ciaran made a great speech thanking Saint Eunan's for use of the pitch and Gavin Craig who did a great job refereeing. He also thanked the management team of Peter Horan and John Rooney and called for three cheers for the gallant Burt team.

From O'Donnell park it was back to Ballyshannon for a huge victory cavalcade around the town which was made all the more special by the great reception the boy received from the Rory Gallagher revelers. The lads and their families made their way to Aras Aodh Ruadh for some well deserved refreshments.

This squad began as under 10s in 2006 and a tremendous effort has been put in by the boys and their management to get where they are today. The boys have a great work ethic on and off the field and hopefully this will stay with them throughout their careers. The discipline and never say die attitude of this panel has won them much praise wherever they have played and thankfully they have got their just rewards by claiming an unprecedented double double. There is a great trust and respect between the panel and the management team. Well done to Peter Horan, manager, and his back room team of John Rooney, Johnny Browne and Eddie Lynch. Well done also to Billy Finn who put in a lot of work with the lads in their first couple of years in under 10 and under 12 and is still a loyal supporter of the team. Eddie Lynch took lots of pictures of the historic event, which are now available to view.

The next outing for these lads is the much awaited Féile na nGael in Parteen, which the whole panel and management are eagerly looking forward to. They set their goal in 2006 to qualify for Féile in 2010 now that they have achieved that goal, they intend to enjoy every minute of it. On the subject of Féile na nGael Aodh Ruadh juvenile committee would like to acknowledge the tremendous donation of US$500 which the under 14 panel received from James 'Freddie' Grimes formally of Erne Street and now resident in Boston. James was the captain of the Aodh Ruadh hurling team which won the junior championship in 1994. He was a great hurler who learnt all the skills from his late father, Seamus. Though resident in Boston for a number of years James keeps up to date on all Aodh Ruadh matters and has a great interest in the underage hurling set-up and he wished to be associated with the historic trip to Féile. On behalf of the management and players we offer him our sincere thanks. Preparations are well underway for our under 14s trip to Clare for Féile na nGael any business or individual who would like to make a donation to this historic trip please contact John Rooney on 086-2587793.

The under 12 hurlers are away to Four Masters in the first game of the Donegal league this Thursday. The bus leaves the park at 6pm.

The under 8s are taking part in a blitz in O'Donnell park this Sunday. Arrangements will be distributed to the panel during the week.

Training as normal for all others on Sunday at 12 noon. Any parent of any underage hurler who wishes to buy a subsidised helmet can contact any underage manager or John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
The under 14 girls had a good win over Pettigo/Naomh Bríd on Saturday. This was the final league game and they are now through to the semi-final stages which will take place next Thursday. The other semi-finalists have not yet been confirmed. They will play Four Masters in a challenge game this Wednesday at 7pm in Father Tierney park.

Under 12 training continues on Wednesday evening at 7pm.

This Wednesday at 5.30pm the Willie Rogers under 10 tournament will take place in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. All support would be greatly appreciated. The teams taking part are Four Master, Erne Gaels, Saint Naul's and Aodh Ruadh.

Aodh Ruadh ladies would like to wish Creevy National School girls team all the best when they take on Moville in the county final this Thursday evening.

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15 June

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh put up a valiant battle against Saint Eunan's on their home turf last Saturday in the senior championship. But in the Letterkenny side were able to do just about enough to keep Ballyshannon at bay. The Ernesiders had gone in level at the break, but the game slipped away from Aodh Ruadh over the course of the second half. We have a full match report and a couple of pictures.

Aodh Ruadh's reserves went down fighting against Saint Eunan's in the championship. They gave it everything in the first half and went in at the break with the tie level. They opened the second half with a fantastic effort and a Niall Murray point after ten minutes put the Ernesiders into the lead. However Saint Eunan's fired over a series of unanswered points to secure their passage into the next round on a score line of 1-10 to 1 - 6. The Aodh Ruadh team was: Paul Kane; Stephen Bradley, Simon Gillespie, Gary Carty; Aidan Murray, Mickey Dolan, Eoin McNeill; Matthew Thompson, Pauric Loughlin; John McIntyre (0-1), James McIntyre, Joe Watson (0-3); Niall Murray (0-1), Turlough McIntyre (1-1), Brian McGuinness. Substitutes: James O'Donnell, Barry Leonard.

MacCumhaill's had five points to spare over Aodh Ruadh's thirds in Father Tierney Park last Saturday. Best for Ballyshannon were Niall Thomas who capped his performance with a fine goal, while Martin McGlynn and Gerald McGloin also fired over some quality points. The pick in defence was Maurice Kane who had another solid shift at wing back.

There was no fixtures for the seniors or reserves at the time of mailing, however the thirds are down to host Pettigo this weekend, day and time to be confirmed.

Aodh Ruadh's under 14s had a fine win over Kilcar on Monday evening when they won by 2-10 to 1-2. The next match for the under 14s is an away game against Killybegs in Fintra next Monday, 21st June at 7.30pm. There is training this Wednesday at 6pm.

Last Saturday the under 12s of Aodh Ruadh, Bundoran, Melvin Gaels and Erne Gaels came to Ballyshannon to compete in the Willie Rogers tournament. And once again the tournament was favoured with both great weather and great football. After a tight and competitive round robin section Erne Gaels and Aodh Ruadh topped the table, putting the pair through to the 'A' final. After stumbling in the first game against Melvin Gaels, Aodh Ruadh, had won the final round robin game against Erne Gaels with a powerful display. By contrast the Belleek side had been in flying form in the other two games. That set it up for a great final. Aodh Ruadh opened well enough, but a big, strong Erne Gaels side had more left in the tank after the round robin stages and they were able to create and take their chances with greater ease than the hosts. There were great scenes of celebration at the final whistle with Erne Gaels winning by 4-4 to 2-6. Willie Rogers' son, Barry, presented the defeated finalists, captained by Daniel Warnock, with their runners up medals, before presenting the Willie Rogers trophy to the Erne Gaels joint captains, Michael Herron and Dara Dolan. We have a full report, plus dozens of pictures from the tournament. The next action for the under 12s is a Go Games blitz against Naomh Conaill this Wednesday 16th June at 6pm .

Under 10 training continues this Saturday up at the park at 11.45am.

On Saturday 12th June our under 8 team travelled to Letterkenny to take on Saint Eunan's in a prelude to our senior teams championship games later in the evening. In all 29 players travelled to take on a well drilled Eunan's outfit. Our three teams were very evenly matched and great credit must go to each player. They really gave the blitz their best. A large number of parents travelled as well which really helped our boys perform on the day. Thanks also to Saint Eunan's who very graciously supplied each and every person with sandwiches, buns and juice. Best on the day for Aodh Ruadh was Shane Whelan with two fantastic penalty saves, Daniel Breen who covered every blade of grass for his team and Daniel Dolan who got two superb points. Many thanks to Martin McLaughlin and Tracey Flood who took pictures on the day. Have a wee look at their shots.

Under 6 and under 8 training continues as normal on Saturday at 11am at Colaiste Cholmcille. The following Saturday we are hoping to host Saint Eunan's in a return fixture. Each player will be provided with a note on Saturday with more details. We would greatly appreciate the help of any parents who can assist with refreshments on the day. Items such as sandwiches, fruit and juice would be most welcome.

~ SUMMER CAMP ~
The 17th annual Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp commences on Monday, 5th July and continues until Friday, 23rd July. There's loads to do with football, hurling, swimming, rounders, obstacle courses and plenty of other fun and games. Each week of the camp concludes with a sports day on Friday. The camp runs from 10am to 3pm and is open to all children from 6 to 14 years-of-age. This year prices remain unchanged for the seventh year in a row and represent excellent value. The cost per week is €70 per child. Family concessions are as follows: €130 for two children; €180 for three children; and €200 for four children. Children should bring a packed lunch as no one will be allowed to leave the camp during the day. Applications to be returned to Sylvester Maguire at the Mullins Ballyshannon. Enquiries to 071-9858277 or 086-0532495 or check out www.aodhruadh.org.

~ HURLING ~
There is Secondary Hurling League this Wednesday 16th June between MacCumhaill's and Aodh Ruadh in Ballybofey. Throw in is set for 7.45pm.

The under 16s are at home to Lisnaskea in the Fermanagh league on Tuesday, 15th June.

The day we've all being waiting for has nearly arrived and for the first time in the history of Féile na nGael, Aodh Ruadh will be representing Donegal hurling in the National finals. we are competing in division four and it will be a serious test for this hard working team. They will be competing against two Clare teams, Parteen and Scariff, and their final game is against Swatragh from Derry. The bus will be pulling out from Father Tierney park at 7am on Friday morning and heading for the Banner. Thanks to all who have supported this team over the years and who have passed on best wishes for our trip to Féile na nGael, including former member of this team, Niall Cullen who emigrated to Australia and who has emailed his best wishes to the lads. Thanks also to Maurice McLaughlin who donated €100 for this trip. There is an informal send off for the boys in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Tuesday night beginning at 8.30pm. All are welcome to come up and show their support for the lads.

The under 12s got off to a good start in the Donegal league last week with a comfortable win away to Four Masters. They are at home to Letterkenny Gaels this Tuesday, 15th June, with throw in at 7 pm. all panel members to be up for 6.30pm.
Well done to our under 12 hurlers who took part in the community games long pus in Milford on Sunday last. Meabh Rooney collected the silver medal in the under 14 girls event while Conal Sweeney claimed silver in the boys under 12 event while Brian McHenry came fourth.

Many thanks to Brian McHenry of Whitemaple Developments who sponsored a set of jerseys for our under 8 and under 10 hurlers. This sponsorship is very much appreciated by the Aodh Ruadh juvenile hurling committee.

Our under 8s travelled to Letterkenny on Sunday last and took part in a great blitz there. We fielded two eight-a-side teams and they played a total of seven games winning five. Thanks to all the parents who travelled to the blitz. Thanks also to Eddie Lynch, Michael Ayres and Jonathon Browne who travelled with the team. We have some pictures taken on the trip by Eddie Lynch.

Training for under 8s and under 10s on Sunday at 12 noon. Any parent of any underage hurler who wishes to buy a subsidised helmet can contact any underage manager or John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
The Senior Ladies will play Drumcliffe / Rosses Point in Drumcliffe this Tuesday, 15th July, in a challenge game. Their next competitive outing will take place the weekend of 26th of June when the play Naomh Columba. The time and day has not yet been confirmed.

As part of the All-Ireland football Féile in Derry, Aodh Ruadh will be hosting Limerick side, Monagea, for the weekend commencing Friday, 2nd July. There is also a possibility that Aodh Ruadh under 14s could qualify for the All-Ireland Féile also. There will be further details closer to the time. The under 14s are due to play the league semi-final this week. However they are awaiting the outcome of the league play offs to find out who they are playing and when this game will take place.

The under 12s will play Four Masters in a challenge this Wednesday evening, 16th June, at 6.45pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

The under 10s won the Willie Rogers girls tournament on Wednesday evening past. Participating teams were Aodh Ruadh, Erne Gaels and Saint Naul's, but in the end the Ernesiders came away with the spoils. Among the best for Aodh Ruadh on the day were Dearbhaile O'Moore, Tara Duffy, Mary Flora Scott, Roisín Meehan and Valerie Harley, but it really was a great team effort. That is the end of the year for the under 10s except for a challenge match in July against a team from New York. Watch club notes for further details.

Well done to all the girls who played in the county final for Creevy National School last Thursday evening. It was a hard fought battle and every player gave their best, but unfortunately the girls were defeated by two points. Well done to all involved on reaching the final.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
A course on Child Protection will take place on Wednesday 16th June in Jackson's Hotel Ballybofey at 7.00pm. Please e-mail administrator.donegal@gaa.ie if interested.

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22 June

~ ARMAGH V DONEGAL ~
Ticket prices are as follows for the first round qualifier between Armagh and Donegal. Under 16s - €5; Terrace €10; Stand €20. The total stand allocation for Donegal is 100 tickets, so priority must be given to people with a disability, older people, etc. Ticket orders must be in by mid-day on Tuesday 22nd July at the latest.

~ MEETING ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 24th June in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ FOOTBALL ~
With the seniors and reserves out of action this past couple of weeks, the thirds have been carrying the Aodh Ruadh flag on the adult football front. They had 3-10 to 1-13 over Pettigo in division five last Saturday. That win was built around a fine performance by David Downey in the middle of the field and the silky skills of evergreen/veteran/stalwart (delete as appropriate) attacker Martin McGlynn. The thirds were down to 14 men early in the second half, but they battled well to secure a deserved two points. That win is just the fillip ahead the Junior B Championship play-off against Glenfin. That is down for this 3.30pm this Sunday in Tir Chonaill park. The thirds are the last of our adult footballers still in the championship chase so make the short trip to Donegal town and get behind our boys.

The next match for the under 14s is an away game against Killybegs in Fintra next Friday, 25th June at 7.30pm, followed by a home fixture against Naomh Mhuire on Monday 28th June, also at 7.30pm. There is training this Wednesday at 6pm.

Under 10 training continues this Saturday up at the park at 11.45am.

Our under 8s have a blitz this Saturday from 10am to 11am in Páirc Aoidh Ruadh. Saint Eunan's, Letterkenny will provide the opposition. All players are to be up and togged out at the field for 9.30am. The blitz will finish before 11am. There will be refreshments served afterwards in the club house for all players and parents. We would greatly appreciate the help of any parents who can assist with refreshments on the day. Items such as sandwiches, fruit and juice would be most welcome.

Under 6 training continues as normal this Saturday in the school field at 11am. Well done to our player of the week Jamie Gilmore who was fantastic at all our games.

~ HURLING ~
Our under 14s performed brilliantly at Féile last weekend. Our bus with our panel of 21 pulled out of Ballyshannon on Friday morning at 7am and headed for Parteen, county Clare. From the moment we landed at Parteen the host club looked after our every need. it was a proud moment for all the boys when a lone piper led the Aodh Ruadh and Parteen teams out onto the field and we all stood for Amhrán na bhFiann, happy in the knowledge that history was being made as the first Aodh Ruadh hurling team were about to take part in the national finals of Féile na nGael.

Our boys played the hurling we knew they were capable of and matched the Banner men in every aspect of the game. We began to get on top and built up a lead of four points. As anyone who knows anything about hurling knows, Clare people are passionate about their hurling and we expected a comeback from them. They rattled the net and brought the game back to a one point game, at this stage the Ballyshannon men stood tall and their determination evident over the years came to the fore and they ran out winners by 3-6 to 1-7. This was a great start to Féile after our long trip. Our boys were determined to prove to everyone that they were able to hurl with the best of them.

After a lovely meal provided by the Parteen club it was onto Cusack park, Ennis to begin the parade through the streets of Ennis. As we lined up with all the leading hurling teams in the country it was a very proud and deserved moment for these boys. It was a great thrill for the boys as we made our way up O'Connell street, Ennis to see Aodh Ruadh's Mr. Hurling, Billy Finn, clapping them on their way to meet with GAA president, Christy Cooney. It was another very proud moment for all involved in hurling in Aodh Ruadh to see GAA president Christy Cooney present Aodh Ruadh captain Ciaran Rami with the Féile na nGael pennant. From Ennis it was another long trip on the bus back to Parteen to our host families and the end of a very long and historic day for the boys and their families.

Saturday morning bright and early at 8.30 a.m. we began the trip to Scariff in the middle of east Clare and the home of Clare hurling for a clash with host club. In soaring temperatures this Aodh Ruadh team put on an exhibition of hurling that was like nothing ever seen from an Aodh Ruadh team and ran out easy winners 2-5 to 0-3. After the game we met with Clare Legend Mike McNamara who was Ger Loughnane's right hand man for Clare's two All-Ireland wins in '95 and '97. He spoke with the boys and their mentors and complemented them on their style of play and their determination and passion for the game of hurling. At this stage our travelling supporters were in great voice and the Donegal flags were flying in the banner, our next game was against Swatragh who were fighting for their Féile lives. It was a tough, competitive low scoring affair, but once again the Aodh Ruadh boys proved they could hurl with the best of them and represented Donegal well, running out winners by 1-4 to 0-3.

After three wins the unthinkable had happened. The Donegal representatives had topped the division four section a with maximum points. It was the talk of Scariff, the heat at this stage was unbearable and fatigue was setting, in but the boys were ready to give it one last lash in the All-Ireland semi-final against Crusheen/Tubber. Again we had to take to the hills of Clare and make the journey to Bodyke, home of Clare hurling legend Liam Doyle. The game was only seconds old when Colm Kelly ran the length of the field from centre half back and put the ball over the bar and let everyone know Aodh Ruadh were ready for the challenge. In a low scoring first half Aodh Ruadh were ahead throughout. A goal against the run of play before half time put the amalgamated team from the north Clare/south Galway border two points ahead. Ballyshannon pulled a point back before half time and made it a one point game. The worried expressions on the Clare mentors showed the closeness of the game, Crusheen/Tubber got a controversial goal shortly after half time and built up a commanding lead of six points. The Ballyshannon boys dug deep again and got the next three points of the game. With ten minutes to go and the heat stifling, the Aodh Ruadh boys were four points down and out on their feet, but they never gave up. The Banner men hit for a goal and Aodh Ruadh goalkeeper Adam Irwin was forced to go off as a result of his brave attempt to save the goal. Again the Ernesiders came back and got a goal but two goals in stoppage team for the Clare men put a gloss on the score board for them and they ran out winners by 7-4 to 2-8.

Our lads were devastated the three energy sapping games that day had finally caught up with them, many tears were shed by the lads, the management and our loyal supporters who made the long trip to Clare. After the disappointment reality set in and we realised the enormity of what we had achieved being the only team to achieve maximum points in division four and putting a top Clare hurling team to the pin of their collar. it was back to Parteen for the barbecue and disco. The boys realise how close they came to becoming the first ever Donegal hurling team to qualify for the division four hurling final. The hard work put in by the squad got results and will have to be built on.

Aodh Ruadh Juvenile Hurling Chairman John Rooney made a presentation to the Parteen club and invited them to Ballyshannon. Parteen Féile officer Derek Kenny spoke of the pleasure it was for them to host Aodh Ruadh and spoke of the boys hurling skill and their excellent behaviour with all the host families. He said they were a credit to their families, their management, their club and their town and he accepted the invitation to Aodh Ruadh. From there it was more hurling and Clare legend and corner forward on the Clare team of the millennium Nassy Jordan gave the boys and exhibition of drills on Parteen's hurling wall and he hopes to repeat these drills in Ballyshannon on the hurling wall we aim to build.

After mass and a great welcome for the boys from Father Tom we made our way back to Ballyshannon, happy that we gave it our best and represented our club our family and our town with pride and quite possibly achieved the highest finish in the National Féile na nGael by a Donegal team. After listening to Sharon Shannon and her band the whole way up the N17 our boys were surprised and delighted at the great reception at Father Tierney park where our families and supporters came out to give our young heroes a fabulous homecoming. After speeches by John Rooney, Town Mayor, Eugene Dolan, in one of his last official roles, Peter Horan and captain Ciaran Rami the boys made their way home after an unforgettable weekend, where we laughed together, fought together and cried together and put Donegal underage hurling firmly on the map. As Clare legend Nassy said to us you can buy trophies but you can't buy memories!

Many thanks to all our sponsors who helped finance our trip to Clare previously mentioned on the web site and new sponsors including Rossa McCosker, Centra, Ballyshannon who sponsored beautiful hoodies for the panel and who provided ice creams for all the boys on our arrival home; Kevin Byrne Coach Hire who sponsored kit bags for panel and management, Fin McCool's who donated €50, Gerry Ferguson who donated a lovely statue which we presented to Parteen and all those who wish to remain anonymous who made donations from €20 to €200 it was much appreciated by us all. Thanks to all who travelled to Clare to support the boys, texted or called to wish good luck and see how we got on. Thanks to MacCumhaill's and Letterkenny Gaels who contacted us to congratulate us and finally thanks to all who turned out to welcome the boys home. Keep an eye on aodhruadh.org over the course of the week as we will uploading pictures from the trip in due course.

The under 14s have their first game in the Fermanagh League next week. Further details will be supplied at training.

The under 16s play MacCumhaill's in the first round of the Donegal league this Thursday in Father Tierney park. We have pictures from the under 16's game against Knocks last Tuesday.

The under 12s had a hard fought win in the second round of the county league last week in Ballyshannon. The under 12 Fermanagh league final against Lisbellaw is on this Thursday. The venue and time have yet to be confirmed.

The under 10s have a blitz this Sunday. Arrangements will be circulated during the week.

Well done to Holy Family National School on their historic win in Letterkenny on Monday, 21st June in the Roinn 3 Cummann na mBunscoil County final where they had a comfortable victory over Carndonagh. This is a great result for the school and the efforts of principal Conor Carney.

Once again many thanks to Brian McHenry of Whitemaple Developments who sponsored a set of jerseys for our under 8 and under 10 hurlers. This sponsorship is very much appreciated by the Aodh Ruadh juvenile hurling committee. We have some pictures of Brian presenting the new set of jerseys to the team management along with the coverage of the leaving bash for the hurlers as they set off to make history at the Féile in Clare.

Training for all ages on Sunday at 12 noon. Any parent of any underage hurler who wishes to buy a subsidised helmet can contact any underage manager or John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
The Senior Ladies are out in the Championship this Saturday against Naomh Columba at 7.30pm in Father Tierney Park.

The under 14 girls took on MacCumhaill's in the county semi-final on Monday evening. It was a great battle between two determined sides, but their strong spine saw the Ballybofey side through. Aodh Ruadh were the more clinical in the first half though, the forwards lived on crumbs, but they executed their chances well while MacCumhaill's were more profligate in front of the posts. Half time saw the Ernesiders leading by 0-4 to no score. MacCumhaill's rearranged their troops in the second half and it had the desired effect as they converted their chances with greater conviction. Nevertheless they were flattered by a score line which was glossed by a goal with the last kick of the ball. The goalkeeper Niamh Toolan gave a fine performance in nets and in front of her Cliodhna Kerr was also in uncompromising form. Meadh McCloskey really gave it everything in the middle of the field while up front Maeve Liston made every ball that came her way count. She did the lion's share of the scoring with Katy McCafferty also notching up a point. The game ended 0-5 to 2-3, but the Ballyshannon girls can be very proud of the manner in which they played the game and the effort they put in. We have some pictures of the game.

The under 12s will travel to Cavan this Saturday to take part in the Ulster Community Games where they will face a team from Armagh in the semi-final.

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29 June

~ FOOTBALL ~
There was heartbreak for the Aodh Ruadh thirds as they went down to a one point extra-time defeat in the Junior B Championship against Glenfin. Aodh Ruadh started the game brightly and quickly took control of the game scoring freely and keeping Glenfin at arm's length. After half time the Ballyshannon men upped the ante considerable. They hit two goals and with ten minutes left they were ten points up. With the game seemingly there for the taking the Ernesiders snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. First a penalty got Glenfin back into the game then they got a cruelly deflected injury time goal with the last kick of normal time to force the tie in to extra time. The game was nip and tuck in extra time, but Glenfin were the ones a point ahead when the final whistle went - the final score line reading, Aodh Ruadh 4-13, Glenfin 4-14. It was hard blow to take for a team that has battled so well, and indeed Glenfin are unlikely to face many harder challenges in this championship. Among the best for Aodh Ruadh the brothers Perry, Sean and Steven who both goaled and Val Murray who also raised a green flag. Martin McGlynn gave another fine display at corner forward, while David Downey was excellent once again at midfield and also rattled in a goal. The Aodh Ruadh team was: Gary Walsh, David McLoone, Kevin Lawless, David O'Donnell; Gerard Ferguson, Ken Monaghan, Ronan Matthews; Barry Gallagher, David Downey; Dermot Slevin, Damien Conlon, Steven Perry; Sean Perry, Val Murray, Martin McGlynn. Substitutes: Paul Lawless, Conor Thomas, Liam Devanney, Gerald McGloin, Patrick Kelly, Raymond Granaghan, David Finnerty. We have some pictures from the game up.

There were no fixtures scheduled for the seniors, reserves or thirds at the time of mailing. If you desperately need a fix of senior action you can check out the lads training.

Aodh Ruadh under 14s had a good away win over table-toppers Killybegs last Friday. They their fine run of form when they ran out winners by 7-12 to 1-4 over Naomh Mhuire in Father Tierney Park on Monday evening. The early stages of the game were tightly fought and it was a draw game after 20 minutes. However two goals, the first coming from Colm Kelly, broke Naomh Mhuire's resistance and after that the flood gates seemed to open. Colm Kelly had a superb game at midfield and finished with 2-2. Terry Ward continued his good form, finishing with 2-1 while Daniel Mangan also chipped in a brace of goals. The remainder of the scoring was shared among Stephen Thompson (0-4), Oisín Roper (1-1), Shane McGrath (0-2), Philip Patton (0-1), and Ellis McGuinness (0-1). Jason Gallagher had yet another sound game at full back while Matthew Maguire was exceptional at centre half back and Shane McGrath also shone in a defensive capacity. A special mention too for Gavin McDaid improves his game with every outing in an Aodh Ruadh shirt, his kick outs, in particular, are proving a real bonus. The next match for the under 14s is an away game against Naomh Conaill next Monday, 5th July at 7.30pm. There is training this Saturday at 7pm.

Four Masters, Killybegs, Kilcar and Ardara are all confirmed for the annual under 10 Mick Shannon blitz this Saturday, 3rd July. All help would be greatly appreciated with the event, in particular with refreshments upstairs for the large numbers expected to attend. A huge thank you to all who helped with the purchase of T-Shirts for all participants in the blitz. The first game begins at 11am sharp. Aodh Ruadh players should be at the park for 10.15am.

Last Saturday our under 8s competed in a blitz against Saint Eunan's Letterkenny in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. It was a great occasion with over 30 Aodh Ruadh players getting to play in the blitz. All matches were very close with the Saint Eunan's boys and girls showing some great skill and determination after the long journey from O'Donnell Park. There were stars all over the field in green and white however, and the practice and hard work of the boys was on show for everyone to see. In our first game Cian Rooney showed why people are already comparing him to a young Paul Finlay with some superb scores and passes. Jake Foley put in a great hours work not only as tough tackling defender but as a excellent shot stopping goalie while Gavin Timoney has proved to be the find of the year with some great long distance scores. Great credit also to all the parents, coaches and referees who ensured the smooth running of the event. Afterwards it was up to the club house for a lovely feed of sandwiches, fruit, crisps and buns. Many thanks to all the parents and Pat Malaniff for providing the food. We have some really outstanding pictures of the day's action.

All parents and coaches are invited to attend the Bon Voyage/American Wake this Sunday 4th July for Simon Gillespie at the Bridgend bar in Ballyshannon. It wouldn't be an overstatement to say Simon has helped revolutionise underage training in the club and his move to the States is a serious loss to Aodh Ruadh. Our loss is New York's gain, for now, but hopefully he'll steer clear of the Sex in the City girls and we might see him back here coaching and playing again at some point in the future.

Under 8 training moves to Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh for the foreseeable future on Saturdays mornings at 11am at the top pitch where the blitz was on. Please inform any parents you may know of the change.

Under 6 training will also move to Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Saturday mornings at 11am. Well done to our players of the week James Monaghan and Michael Doogan.

~ MEETING ~
The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place on Tuesday 6th July in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ HURLING ~
Best of luck to our under 14 manager, Peter Horan, who is part of the Donegal squad who play Longford in Lory Meagher final in Croke Park on Sunday. Best wishes also to Aidan Begley and Chris Kilgannon who are also part of the squad.

The senior Aodh Ruadh hurlers take on Four Masters in the Secondary Hurling League at 7.45pm this Wednesday 30th June in Father Tierney Park.

The promised pictures from the highly successful Aodh Ruadh trip to Féile are now up. Our under 14s suffered a heavy defeat away to Lisbellaw in the first round of the Fermanagh league. In a totally spineless and heartless performance they lost out 5-1 to 0-6.

Aodh Ruadh's under 12 hurlers maintained their stranglehold on the Fermanagh league with a second successive title victory. They beat Lisbellaw in a very exciting final on Thursday, 24th June, on a score line of 2-2 to 1-4. Fermanagh hurling chairman, Peter Bogue presented the Fermanagh Shield to the winning captain, Brendan Gillespie, and then it was back to Aras Aoidh Ruaidh for the celebrations. We have pictures from the team, the presentation and the celebrations. The under 12s followed-up that title triumph with a good win away to MacCumhaill's in the Donegal league on Sunday.

The under 12s and under 16s play Saint Eunan's in the Donegal league this Thursday. Details will be supplied to players during the week.

Our under 10s took part in a blitz at Letterkenny Gaels on Sunday. Aodh Ruadh had two teams taking part and all put in a great effort winning four out of their six games. Well done to Michael Ayres and Kevin McDermott who travelled with the team.

Training for all ages on Sunday at 12 noon. Any parent of any underage hurler who wishes to buy a subsidised helmet can contact any underage manager or John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
The Senior Ladies had an excellent win over Naomh Columba on Saturday evening in Father Tierney Park. The game finished with a score line of 2-16 to 0-3. It was a pleasing all-round performance. There was a great display from the full forward line of Dearbhaile McNeill, Donna Martin and Elaine Dorrian, Donna and Elaine both coming up with fine goals. They were well supported by Anna Rafferty at half back. Tanya O'Shea at midfield and Tara Khan at centre did a serious amount of work and gave Ballyshannon a great platform to build on. The senior ladies are now officially, the only adult football team still in the hunt for championship honours! The ladies will face either Ardara or Malin in the intermediate county final which is due to be played in August.

There is under 16 training this Friday at 5pm.

The under 12s traveled to Cavan on Saturday and played in the Ulster Community Games semi-final. All the girls put in a huge effort but unfortunately they were beaten on the day by a very strong Armagh side.

~ CAIRDE AOIDH RUAIDH ~
The club have launched their major fund raising initiative for 2010. The scheme, entitled Cairde Aoidh Ruaidh, asks club members to sign up and donate the equivalent of €5 a week to the club in the form of a monthly direct debit. We are appealing to club members to get behind the scheme. It is essential for the club's financial welfare, which is in a precarious state. To get some information on the scheme you can download the brochure. This brochure also includes the standing order form for the scheme. If anyone needs any further information don't hesitate to contact us on info@aodhruadh.org or call 087-6431805.

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JULY

6 July

~ FOOTBALL ~
There were no fixtures scheduled for the seniors or reserves at the time of mailing. The thirds are away to MacCumhaill's this Sunday, 11th July in division five action.

There's a big game for the under 16s this Friday, 9th July, as they take on Naomh Mhuire in the Southern Divisional championship semi-final in Ardara at 7.30pm. A big show of Ballyshannon support would be much appreciated.

The under 14s had a brilliant win against Naomh Conaill on Monday evening. Aodh Ruadh enjoyed wind advantage in the first half and extracted full value from it, boing in 3-3 to 1-2 up at the break. Oisín Roper did the main damage in the first half with three goals. The first was a classy strike into the top corner. The second hopped over keeper and Oisín collected in before finishing to the net. The next goal came moment later when Oisín was fastest to react when a speculative shot hit the Naomh Conaill cross bar. Glenties needed a good start to the second half, but it was the Ernesiders who hit three quick fire points to draw the Blues sting. The Ballyshannon boys ground the game out for the remainder with a ferocious defensive performance. Once again Matthew Maguire was exceptional in defense and Gavin McDaid's kick outs were very effective. Colm Kelly had a superb game, hitting a fine point and directing the Aodh Ruadh challenge from midfield and, latterly, from defence. In a game where every score was like gold dust Conor Kennedy hit two points while Philip Patton, Daniel Mannion and Stephen Thompson also hit vital points. The final score was 2-5 to 3-6 in favour of Aodh Ruadh at the end of one of their toughest challenges this year. Aodh Ruadh's final game of the round robin stage of the league sees them play Ardara in Father Tierney Park next Monday, 12th July at 7.30pm. A win in that match would assure them of a place in the Southern Divisional final. Interestingly that game also serves as a dress rehearsal for the sides' meeting in the championship in early August.

Aodh Ruadh hosted the Mick Shannon blitz in Father Tierney Park last Saturday, 3rd July, in beautiful conditions. As well as Aodh Ruadh, participants included Four Masters, Killybegs, Ardara and Kilcar, all great clubs guaranteeing a high standard of competition. Starting at 11am the A and B competitions ran off well, thanks in no small part to the efficient officiating of Conor Patton, Val Murray, Sylvester Maguire and Terence McShea. The whistle blew on the last game at 3.30pm. The referees awarded the 'A' team of the tournament trophy to Killybegs, and the 'B' team of the tournament trophy to Four Masters. After the presentation of trophies every player was presented with a specially commissioned T-shirt as a memento of the 2010 Mick Shannon blitz. These were very generously sponsored by Billy Cleary at the Abbey Garage, Pearse and Rory O'Neill of the Bridgend, Ballybookies and Joe Roper. There was a great spread laid on in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh throughout the day for all the teams and serious credit must go to the parents who did a lot of work feeding the masses on the day. We have a massive range of pictures from the day's action up on aodhruadh.org.

Under 8 training is in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh for the foreseeable future on Saturdays mornings at 11am. Under 6 training is also in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Saturday mornings at 11am. We have a few pictures from last week's training.

~ MEETING ~
The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place on Tuesday 6th July in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ HURLING ~
Hard luck to Peter Horan, Aidan Begley and Chris Kilgannon Who were part of Donegal panel who were beaten in the Lory Meagher final by Longford on Saturday last.

The under 12s suffered a heavy defeat last Thursday away to a strong Saint Eunan's team in the Donegal league. On a brighter note the under 16s began their Donegal league campaign with a good win at home against Saint Eunan's. We have some pictures from the victory. Our under 8s have a blitz at home this Sunday details will be circulated during the week.

Training for all ages on Sunday at 12 noon. Any parent of any underage hurler who wishes to buy a subsidised helmet can contact any underage manager or John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
Best wishes to Tara Khan, Dearbhaile McNeill and Anna Rafferty and all involved with the Donegal minor ladies team who will take on Laois in the All-Ireland semi-final on Saturday at 3pm in Mullahoran, Cavan. All support welcome is very welcome.

It was a very busy weekend for all involved with the under 14 team as they hosted an under 14 team from Monagea in Limerick for the All-Ireland Féile competition in Derry. On Saturday morning Aodh Ruadh, Monagea, Naomh Bríd and Edenderry, who were hosted by Naomh Bríd, all competed in a blitz in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. On the day Monagea came out on top and so they went on to Convoy where they qualified for, and went on to win, the Division 2 All Ireland Féile final on Sunday. It's worth also giving a shout out to Shauna Ward of Edenderry who won the skills competition at the blitz in Ballyshannon. The Ladies club would like to thank all the families who hosted players over the weekend and everyone else who helped make the weekend the success it was. We have a great range of pictures from the day. The under 14s have finished for this season and hopefully all the girls will be back training in autumn.

An under 10 team called Rocklands from all the way over in New York are coming to Father Tierney Park this Saturday for a match against Aodh Ruadh at 3pm. All under 10s to be up at the park for 2.30pm.

~ SUMMER CAMP ~
The first week of the 19th annual Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp saw 50 children attending in glorious weather and having serious fun. We are still taking registrations for the last two weeks from Monday, 12th July to Friday, 23rd July. There's loads to do, with football, hurling, swimming, rounders, obstacle courses and plenty of other fun and games. Each week of the camp concludes with a sports day on Friday. The camp runs from 10am to 3pm and is open to all children from 6 to 14 years-of-age. This year prices remain unchanged for the seventh year in a row and represent excellent value. The cost per week is €70 per child. Family concessions are as follows: €130 for two children; €180 for three children; and €200 for four children. Children should bring a packed lunch as no one will be allowed to leave the camp during the day. Applications to be returned to Sylvester Maguire at the Mullins Ballyshannon. Enquiries to 071-9858277 or 086-0532495.

~ CAIRDE AOIDH RUAIDH ~
There has been an encouraging uptake for Cairde Aoidh Ruaidh over the past few weeks. The Cairde scheme seeks club members to sign up and donate the equivalent of €5 a week to the club in the form of a monthly standing order. We are appealing for promoters who have outstanding standing order sheets to get them in for the July Finance Committee meeting on Thursday 29th January. To get further information on the scheme you can download the brochure. This brochure also includes the standing order form for the scheme. If anyone needs any further information don't hesitate to contact us on info@aodhruadh.org or call 087-6431805.

~ SAYONARA SIMON ~
Appropriately enough on US Independence Day, the club bid farewell to our Coaching Officer, Simon Gillespie, in the Bridgend on Sunday evening. He was presented with a Aodh Ruadh jersey, to keep the flag flying when he takes up his three year coaching post in New York in the next few weeks. The reserve team also made a presentation to Simon too. Simon has made a huge impact on the club in a very short period of time and, although he is taking up a dream posting, he will be a huge loss to us. We wish Simon all the very best in the States. There's a couple of shots of the presentations.

~ RTE SEEKING CANDIDATES ~
The club received an e-mail from RTE seeking men for a documentary about men aged 18-25 from a GAA background who are currently unemployed and perhaps contemplating leaving Ireland to find work. The full e-mail with further information and contact details are on aodhruadh.org under the Off The Pitch section, for anyone who might be interested.

~ VOTES OF SYMPATHY ~
There were votes of sympathy for the family of Peter Duffy, Cluain Barron; The family of Cathal Hannigan, Ballybofey; and the family of James Gallagher, Letterkenny.

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13 July

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh went down to a 0-6 to 2-11 defeat against Glenfin last Saturday. It was tough day at the office, but Paul Kane couldn't be faulted in goals. He stood firm under severe pressure and dealt manfully with the situation. Johnny Gallagher also fought hard throughout. The young wing backs, Ronan McGurrin and Conor Patton continue to grow into senior football and didn't let their heads drop, Ronan getting for a good point. Elsewhere Stephen Ward tried hard in midfield, but, generally Glenfin presented too stern a challenge for Aodh Ruadh to deal with. We have pictures from the match up.

The thirds were defeated in Ballybofey last Friday, MacCumhaill's running out 2-15 to 1-10 winners. MacCumhaill's were in control for the majority of the game, but Aodh Ruadh did bring some class to the encounter in the shape of Sean Perry. Perry picked up the ball 30 metres out before dancing through the Ballybofey defence and curling the ball into the top corner of the net for Aodh Ruadh's only goal. Clearly in fine form, Sean also rattled the cross bar shortly after, but thankfully there was no repetition or the soccer scouts would have had him away. Elsewhere there were good performances for the Ernesiders from Martin Gallagher, who continues to be a cut above in midfield and David McLoone who had a good stint in the defence.

This week's senior fixtures start with the reserves playing Glenfin in Father Tierney Park on Tuesday 13th July at 7.30pm. Then this weekend the thirds travel to Glenties a day and time had yet to be settled upon at time of mailing. The seniors and reserves host Fanad Gaels in Father Tierney park this Sunday 18th July. The reserve game throws in at 1.30pm followed by the seniors at 3pm.

The under 16s booked their place in the Southern Divisional championship final with a hard-earned 2-8 to 2-13 win over Naomh Mhuire in Ardara last Friday. The Ernesiders started like a house on fire and were soon five points to no score up, but having taken their foot of the pedal in the second quarter Naomh Mhuire battled back well to leave just a point between the sides heading in at the break. Once again Aodh Ruadh came out like a train in the second half and ran into an eight point lead, however, once again they allowed the Annagry boys to reel them in to within a point. Ballyshannon responded well though, and picked off a goal and a point in the dying moments to seal the win and their place in the divisional final against either Kilcar or Killybegs. That game takes place this Friday. Eamon McGrath had a magnificent game at the centre of defence. Aodh Ruadh's man of the match was probably centre half back Alan Finan who played with great heart and really rose to the challenge when Naomh Mhuire were turning up the heat. It was a day when the forwards also delivered in spades, not wasting a chance that came their way. Johnny Gettins was elegance personified with his 1-3 haul, while half forward, Jamie McDonald's fine tally of 1-2 included the clinching goal as time ebbed away. Under 16 training continues every Monday and Wednesday at 7.30pm.

Aodh Ruadh under 14s pulled off a good home win against Ardara to secure their place in the Southern Divisional league final. Ballyshannon started off strongly running into a good lead, but Ardara came more into things and a goal shortly after half time gave them a glimpse of daylight. The Ernesiders were quick to snuff out the challenge though, and ran out worthy 5-9 to 2-4 winners in the end. Niall Harley and Colm Kelly were both very dominant in midfield both and the pair capped fine displays with a goal apiece, Kelly adding two points to his tally. Daniel Mannion showed no small amount of flare as he executed his goal, while Jason Gallagher was also excellent in the corner, chipping in with a point. Oisín Roper and Philip Patton continued their good scoring streaks with a goal apiece, while the lively Shane McGrath with two points and Stephen Thompson with three points also made big contributions. John Ward finished out the scorers with a well-taken point. Defensively Conor Kennedy was very assured at full back, while once again Matthew Maguire performed with considerable aplomb at centre half back and Eddie Lynch at wing back also had a fine 60 minutes.

There is an under 10 blitz in Bundoran this Saturday, 17th July. The bus leaves the Park at 10.30 sharp. All players should take small packed lunch and bottle of water. Please dress appropriately for weather conditions. We hope to see as many parents as possible supporting the lads in Bundoran. Here's a direct link to the pictures of the Mick Shannon blitz on aodhruadh.org. This was overlooked in last week's mailing, apologies.

All parents please note that under 6 and under 8 training has now finished for the summer and will resume in September. Many thanks to all the parents, players and coaches for their help throughout the year.

If you are interested in finding out the latest happenings in New York GAA please keep a look out on the new coaching and games website http://nygaa.blogspot.com/ for all the latest happenings from Gaelic Park.

~ HURLING ~
The senior hurlers are scheduled for two matches this week. On Wednesday, 14th July, they are in Senior Hurling League action away to Setanta. That game throws in at Killygordon at 7.30pm. On Sunday, 18th July, then it is Junior Hurling Championship action with Aodh Ruadh taking on MacCumhaill's in Donegal Town at 6pm.

The under 16s lost away to Strabane by two points in the Donegal league.

The under 14s play Knocks at home in the Fermanagh League on Tuesday at 7.30pm.

On Thursday our under 12s are at home to Buncrana in the Donegal League. Our

The under 10s play Naomh Eoin of Sligo in a challenge game at 6.30pm on Tuesday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

Father Tierney Park hosted an under 8 hurling blitz on Sunday 11th July. Participating were Aodh Ruadh, Gaoth Dobhair, Setanta and Saint Eunan's. Aodh Ruadh fielded 2 teams and played nine games, winning seven. Thanks to everyone who helped on the day, especially all the parents who provided refreshments for all the teams, mentors and officials afterwards. Eddie Lynch took some pictures of the day's action.

Training for all ages on Sunday at 12 noon. Any parent of any underage hurler who wishes to buy a subsidised helmet can contact any underage manager or John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
Many congratulations to Tara Khan, Dearbhaile McNeill and Anna Rafferty who are all involved with the Donegal minor ladies team who will defeated Laois by 3-8 to 3-12 in the All-Ireland semi-final last Saturday. Their opponents in the All-Ireland final will be Galway, who defeated Cork by two points last weekend.

An under 10 girls team called Rockland came to Ballyshannon from all the way over in New York. They came to Father Tierney Park last Saturday, 10th July and took on the Aodh Ruadh under 10s. The match reinforced the strong links between Aodh Ruadh and New York football. The Rockland under 10 girls manager, a former Ballyshannon resident, Pat McGovern is now the chairman of the Gaelic For Girls programme. Famously Niall McCready lined out for Donegal New York and the New York Senior Football team. Brian McCaffrey now plays his football with Donegal New York while Katie Flood is playing for the summer with Na Fianna. Newly appointed New York Games Development Officer, Simon Gillespie, is also a member of the club so it was great for all involved to be part of the occasion. We have some pictures from the day.

~ SUMMER CAMP ~
The second week of the 19th annual Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp saw over 80 children attending in glorious weather and having serious fun. We are still taking registrations for the last two weeks from Monday, 12th July to Friday, 23rd July. There's loads to do, with football, hurling, swimming, rounders, obstacle courses and plenty of other fun and games. Each week of the camp concludes with a sports day on Friday. The camp runs from 10am to 3pm and is open to all children from 6 to 14 years-of-age. This year prices remain unchanged for the seventh year in a row and represent excellent value. The cost per week is €70 per child. Family concessions are as follows: €130 for two children; €180 for three children; and €200 for four children. Children should bring a packed lunch as no one will be allowed to leave the camp during the day. Applications to be returned to Sylvester Maguire at the Mullans Ballyshannon. Enquiries to 071-9858277 or 086-0532495.

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19 July

~ FOOTBALL ~
A late goal from Anthony Boyle earned Aodh Ruadh maximum points from their meeting with Fanad Gaels in Ballyshannon yesterday afternoon. The visitors led by two points at the break and when Paul Coyle added a second goal shortly after the re-start things looked good for Fanad. However, with Brian Roper, Michael 'Sticky' Ward and Barry Mulligan all prominent the Ernesiders slowly but surely worked their way back into the contest. Two goals from Anthony Boyle helped make sure of a much needed home win. We have a full report and pictures.

It was a mixed week for the reserves. They were defeated by 0-6 to 1-10 by Glenfin on Tuesday night last, but they turned that around with a magnificent win over Fanad Gaels on Sunday. They ran out 3-14 to 0-3 winners. It was a great team performance with Matthew 'Turkey' Thompson dominant at midfield and demonstrating some great high fielding. Aodh Ruadh were particularly impressive up front with great movement off the ball. Younger players like Ronan Drummond, Ruairí Drummond, Niall Murray, Stephen Clarke and Turlough 'The Bomber' McIntyre all made substantial contributions. 'The Bomber' also contributed two cracking goals that helped break the Fanad challenge. Ronan Matthews had a fine shift at full back, while the more seasoned Barry Travers played some great stuff, moving the ball well and linking up play deftly from midfield. We have pictures from the Fanad game and the Glenfin game up.

With Philip O'Reilly and Anthony McGrath both tying the knot this weekend (not to each other!), there is no football for any of the three adult male teams. The club wishes Philip, Anthony and their brides all the very best for their nuptials as well as a long and happy married life.

The minors travel to Donegal town this Wednesday to take on Four Masters in the first leg of their first round championship tie. Throw in is at 7.30pm.

The Aodh Ruadh under 16s take on Kilcar in the Southern Divisional championship final in Mountcharles on Friday, 23rd July, throw in at 7.30pm. The club appeals for a good show of green and white to get behind this great bunch of players. It promises to be a fantastic game of football and a vocal support could make all the difference.

The Aodh Ruadh under 14s will face Killybegs in the southern divisional league final. Date, venue and time yet to be confirmed.

The under 10s have finished up for the year. The season ended on a high in Bundoran as both teams competed very well against opposition from Bundoran, Pettigo, and Glenties. The under 10 management would like to wish all the best to the lads who are moving up to under 12 next season and we would hope to see everyone else back next season. Enjoy the rest of the summer holidays.

~ HURLING ~
The seniors had a fine win over Sean MacCumhaill's in Tir Chonaill Park, Donegal Town last Sunday. Aodh Ruadh started very well and after an early goal and a points blitz they were in a comfortable position. However MacCumhaill's hit back with two goals of their own. Ballyshannon responded well though, they upped their game and won every position and demonstrated some great team play to send the Ernesiders in winning by 3-3 to 3-9 at half time. Aodh Ruadh did very well defensively, with Darren Gillespie exemplifying that at centre back and Kevin McDermott who played through the pain barrier between the posts. Paul Sheerin ran the show in midfield and pulled off a couple of outstanding full-stretch blocks. He was complimented by Chris Kilgannon who just showed that bit of county class. Up front Jack Matthews and Mickey Bowering were both in very clinical form, while Johnny Dolan knocked over a number super points from play. In the end Aodh Ruadh ran out 3-17 to 3-4 winners. The next action for the senior hurlers is in Senior Hurling league action again this Wednesday 21st July at 7.45pm when they take on Strabane Shamrocks in Father Tierney Park.

The under 16s are away to Setanta this Thursday in the Donegal league.

The under 14s had a convincing win at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Tuesday last against Knocks in the Fermanagh league. It was a much improved performance by the lads who showed good hunger in this game. Their next game in the Fermanagh league is at home to Lisbellaw on Monday next.

The under 12s had a ding dong battle in atrocious conditions against their great rivals Buncrana in Father Tierney Park on Thursday last, before finally coming out on the wrong end of a 1-6 to 2-2 score line. They matched the strong Inishowen lads throughout the game and their work rate and determination was much improved from their previous games. Their next game in the Donegal league is at home to Setanta this Thursday.

The under 10s play Four Masters in a challenge game in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Wednesday. All players to be up for 6.30pm. The lads are also travelling to Gaoth Dobhair on Sunday for a blitz.

Training for all ages on Sunday at 12 noon. Any parent of any underage hurler who wishes to buy a subsidised helmet can contact any underage manager or John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ SUMMER CAMP ~
The third and final week of summer camp is under way with over 50 children attending. The weather has been fabulous and the craic has been serious. Check out some pictures from last week's camp.

~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies had another good win over Naomh Columba on Sunday in the League. We have pictures from the game up. This will serve the girls well in preparation for the upcoming county final against Malin. A date and venue for this game has yet to be confirmed. Watch aodhruadh.org for updates.

Good Luck to Tara Khan, Dearbhaile McNeill and Anna Rafferty who are all part of the Donegal minor ladies team who will take on Galway in the All-Ireland final next Saturday in Ballinamore, Leitrim at 3.00pm. We encourage everyone from the club to travel down and get behind the girls.

~ MEETING ~
The July Finance Committee meeting takes place at 9pm on Thursday 29th January in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Promoters who have outstanding standing order sheets are asked to have them in for this meeting.

~ CAIRDE AOIDH RUAIDH ~
There has been an encouraging uptake for Cairde Aoidh Ruaidh over the past few weeks. The Cairde scheme seeks club members to sign up and donate the equivalent of €5 a week to the club in the form of a monthly standing order. To get further information on the scheme you can download the brochure. This brochure also includes the standing order form for the scheme. If anyone needs any further information don't hesitate to contact us on info@aodhruadh.org or call 087-6431805.

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26 July

~ MEETING ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 29th July in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend. Cairde Aoidh Ruaidh promoters who have outstanding standing order sheets are asked to have them in for this meeting.

~ FOOTBALL ~
The minors host Four Masters town this Wednesday to take on Four Masters in the first leg of their first round championship tie. Throw in is at 7.30pm. The club appeals for a big show of green and white to get behind this our players in their biggest game of the year so far.

Aodh Ruadh were defeated in the under 16 southern divisional final last Friday by 1-8 to 1-9, but although they were down to 14 men for much of the game they fought every inch of the way. James Barron might have gone off half way through the first half, but Aodh Ruadh remained in control of the game right up until the dying moments. Ahead by 1-4 to 0-4 at half time they were a still point ahead with two minutes to go. Then Kilcar fired over an equaliser and shortly after Aodh Ruadh had a clear call for a penalty rejected by the referee. Kilcar then got their winning point two minutes into injury time, but Aodh Ruadh were allowed no opportunity to level the game, handing victory to the Towney side. Ballyshannon can be proud of the valiant effort the players made though. Eamon McGrath was a rock at full back, while behind him emergency goal keeper, Jamie McDonald left his normal berth at right half forward and had a great game between the sticks. PJ Gillespie had storming game at right half forward. Aodh Ruadh were well served by Alan Finan and Marcus Harley in the middle of the field, Finan probably just edging it for Ballyshannon's man of the match plaudits. Ryan Patton and Johnny Gettins ran the 40 tirelessly and really emptied the tank, Johnny firing over two quality points. At full forward David McGurrin made maximum use of the limited possession that came his way, his haul including Aodh Ruadh's first half goal. Ronan Matthews got some fine pictures of the game. The under 16s are now into county semi-final action this Friday when they take Saint Eunan's in Convoy at 7pm. This promises to be another cracker of a game and with the incentive of another lash at Kilcar in the county final there's a lot riding on it for Aodh Ruadh so we're calling for a big travelling Ballyshannon support to get behind our boys this Friday.

There was further heartache for Aodh Ruadh when they also pipped by a point by Killybegs in under 14 Southern League final by a point in Donegal town on Monday evening. The final score line was 4-7 to 3-11, with the Killybegs winner coming in injury time after the sides had matched each other score for score nearly whole way through. Aodh Ruadh probably had the slower start and that was reflected in the half time score which was 2-4 to 3-4 in favour of the Fishermen. They battled well in the second half and only for a small lack composure could well have won the game. Among the best for Aodh Ruadh were Jason Gallagher at full back, Matthew Maguire and Eddie Lynch at half back and Colm Kelly who played with his customary polish at midfield. Up front Ryan Gallagher played bravely as always and consequently drew a lot of frees from his markers. Shane McGrath was very busy and garnished his contribution with a goal. Philip Patton scored four points after slow start and was a creative influence in the attack. Next up for the under 14s is Saint Eunan's in the county semi-final. Date, time and venue have yet to be confirmed.

An Tánaiste Mary Coughlan visited on the last day of the Aodh Ruadh summer camp. She's handier with a hurl than Sylvester Maguire anyway, and we have the proof.

~ HURLING ~
The seniors had a drew with Strabane Shamrocks 1-8 apiece last Wednesday in the senior hurling league.

Fifteen under 10s took part in a blitz in Gaoth Dobhair on Sunday along with the host club and Saint Eunan's. They played four games winning two and losing two. Well done to Michael Ayres and Kevin McDermott who travelled.

The under 12s are at home to Carndonagh in the Donegal league on Thursday with the time yet to be confirmed.

The under 14s are at home to Lisbellaw in the Fermanagh league on Tuesday. All players to be up for 6.45pm. The lads are then away to Knocks on Monday next.

The under 16s lost away to a strong Setanta team on Thursday last.

The annual underage hurlers trip to Croke Park takes place on 15th August. The lads are going to watch the much anticipated All-Ireland semi-final between Waterford and Tipperary. Another highlight of the day will be under 12 and 14 Aodh Ruadh hurler Brendan Gillespie's participation in the half time exhibition game. This is a great honour for Brendan and the club. Any queries about this trip please contact John Rooney on 086-2587793.

Training for all ages on Sunday at 12 noon. Any parent of any underage hurler who wishes to buy a subsidised helmet can contact any underage manager or John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
Hard luck to Donegal minor ladies who were defeated by Galway in Ballinamore on Saturday. We can be proud of the Aodh Ruadh contingent who represented the club on county panel. Tara Khan, who played at corner back on the day, and Dearbhaile McNeill and Anna Rafferty. We have pictures of the action and some of the Ballyshannon spectators.

Well done to Terence McShea who refereed the Ladies Minor Football All Ireland Shield Final between Mayo and Westmeath. Mayo will be very happy with his performance because they ran out 3-10 to 1-5 winners.

Aodh Ruadh ladies will play Saint Naul's in the league this Tuesday evening at 7pm in Father Tierney park.

Anybody who has yet to return county board tickets and money please do so before 3rd August to Karol Foley.

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AUGUST

3 August

~ PETER O'KEEFE ~
All underage and senior hurling fixtures involving Aodh Ruadh were cancelled last week due to the sudden passing of former underage manager Peter O'Keefe. Peter had a great passion for the game of hurling and coached many underage Aodh Ruadh teams. He was also involved in the management of many underage Donegal teams. In this role he drove up and down the county bringing Aodh Ruadh players to county training and matches. He will be sadly missed by all in Aodh Ruadh. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Rosaleen and children Peadar, Maeve and current under 16 Aodh Ruadh hurler donal. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.

~ FOOTBALL ~
It's been quiet on the senior mens football front this past few weeks and there is no fixtures this weekend either. However, we have received a fixture list for the remainder of the season from the CCC. Here she is:

DIVISION TWO

14th/15th August
Aodh Ruadh v Kilcar
21st/22nd August
Killybegs v Aodh Ruadh
28th/29th August
Cloughaneely v Aodh Ruadh
11th/12th September
Aodh Ruadh v Buncrana
18th/19th September
Malin v Aodh Ruadh
25th/26th September
MacCumhaill's v Aodh Ruadh

DIVISION FIVE

14th/15th August
Glenfin v Aodh Ruadh
21st/22nd August
Aodh Ruadh v Glenswilly
28th/29th August
Aodh Ruadh v Ardara
11th/12th September
Aodh Ruadh v Saint Michael's
18th/19th September
Malin v Aodh Ruadh

Aodh Ruadh opened their 2010 minor championship campaign with a hard-earned 2-12 to 0-8 victory over Four Masters. The game was blighted by a strong breeze which Aodh Ruadh played against in the first half. A James Kelly goal and two superb Ruairí Drummond points helped keep the homesters in the game and the sides went in level at half time on a score line of 1-4 to 0-7. The Ernesiders made good use of the breeze in the second half and Alan Finan, in particular, really shone in that period, notching up a goal and a point. Peter Boyle also had a typically polished game from placed ball, although his drive from a penalty in the second half ended up going over the bar. There was also very effective performances from Ronan Drummond at half back and Ronan McGurrin in the centre of the pitch to help make sure Ballyshannon were on the right side of the final score. The second leg will take place in Tir Chonaill park on Wednesday, August 18th at 7pm. The winners of that game go on to face the winners of the play-off game between Naomh Mhuire and Naomh Conaill. We have a full team sheet and pictures by Ronan Matthews from the game.

The under 16s just came up short against a older, stronger Saint Eunan's side in the county semi-final last Friday. Leading by five points at the interval (0-7 to 0-2), Saint Eunan's seemed to be in a strong position, but Aodh Ruadh got the match back to within two points in the second half and in a key moment the Eunan's keeper, Aidan Mitchell denied Johnny Gettins a goal. Aodh Ruadh's Alan Finan had great first half at midfield, but tired a little in the second half as his championship exertions with the minors earlier in the week took their toll. Saint Eunan's ran out winners by 0-9 to 0-13 at the final whistle. As a unit the six Aodh Ruadh backs were excellent. Colm Kelly and Eamon McGrath especially. Up front Pauric Patton showed well and grabbed two points. Ryan Granaghan was really superb though, scoring four excellent points, two off the left and two off the right. A great showing after a exemplary year of hard, determined work from Ryan. We have a full match report and some pictures.

Some members of the under 16s will be in action again this weekend at the seven-a-side under 15 Óg Sport competition. The first regional blitz takes place in Tir Chonaill park, Donegal town with the action throwing in at 11am. Taking part are Four Masters, Aodh Ruadh, Saint Naul's, Bundoran and Naomh Bríd. The regional final is down for Sunday 15th August. Players will be notified of details for this Saturday later this week.

It's championship action this Friday, 6th August for the Aodh Ruadh under 14s. They travel to Ardara to take on the homesters in their first round, first leg match, the throw-in at 7.30pm. Players should be up at park for 5.45pm. There is training for the under 14s this Tuesday at 6pm. The club appeals for a big show of Ballyshannon support to get behind our players as they get their championship campaign underway. The under 14s are also down to face Saint Eunan's in the county league semi-final on Friday, 13th August. Time and venue have yet to be confirmed.

~ HURLING ~
We have received the next three Senior Hurling League fixtures from the CCC. Here they are. Wednesday 11th August: Buncrana v Aodh Ruadh at 7.30pm. Wednesday 18th August: Four Masters v Aodh Ruadh. Wednesday 1st September: St Eunan's v Aodh Ruadh.

The under 14s beat Lisbellaw at home on Tuesday last in the Fermanagh league. The boys didn't play to their full potential and won the game narrowly in the end. A much improved performance will be needed next Monday night if they are to win the Fermanagh league, when they renew their rivalry with Lisbellaw in the Fermanagh under 14 league final. Time and venue to be confirmed.

Our under 12 hurlers play Burt this Thursday. The bus leaves the park at 5.30pm. We play Carndonagh next Tuesday in our rearranged game in Father Tierney park. A time has yet to be confirmed.

Our under 8 hurlers are taking part in a blitz this Sunday hosted by Letterkenny Gaels. Travel arrangements will be circulated during the week.

A reminder to all intending to travel on the annual underage hurlers trip to Croke Park for the All-Ireland semi-final between Waterford and Tipperary on 15th August. All monies need to be with John Rooney or Peter Horan as soon as possible as seats on the bus are filling up rapidly. Any queries about this trip please contact John Rooney on 086-2587793.

Training for all ages on Sunday at 12 noon. Any parent of any underage hurler who wishes to buy a subsidised helmet can contact any underage manager or John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies footballers have a league match against Convoy on Friday night at 7.30pm in Father Tierney Park. And an important date for your diaries. The ladies will be in intermediate county final against Malin on 29th August. Time, date and venue will be announced nearer the time. There is training for senior ladies on Tuesday at 7pm.

The under 16s fell to a heavy defeat against Saint Naul's in the league last Tuesday. We have some pictures from that game.

~ CAIRDE AOIDH RUAIDH ~
There has been an encouraging uptake for Cairde Aoidh Ruaidh over the past few weeks. The Cairde scheme seeks club members to sign up and donate the equivalent of €5 a week to the club in the form of a monthly standing order. To get further information on the scheme you can download the brochure. This brochure also includes the standing order form for the scheme. If anyone needs any further information don't hesitate to contact us on info@aodhruadh.org or call 087-6431805.

~ NEXT WEEK'S NOTES ~
Anyone with items for next week's notes is asked to direct them to Sean Perry. His e-mail address is sean.perry@oceanfm.ie.

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10 August

Another important weekend of club adult football and hurling action is in prospect with our seniors hosting Kilcar on Sunday afternoon next. The senior and reserve games take place at 3pm and 1.30pm respectively and all support for both teams would be appreciated with a number of players expected to return from injury to present both managers with stronger panels to pick from. Our third team travel to Glenfin on Saturday evening, the side which edged them out of the junior B championship in dramatic fashion earlier this season. Throw-in in the newly developed Teevogue Park is at 7pm.

Meanwhile, our hurlers have a busy week in prospect with a league tie away to Buncrana fixed for Wednesday (August 11th) and a junior championship tie against Setanta scheduled for 5pm on Saturday next at a venue to be confirmed.

Our u-8 hurlers took part in an all county blitz hosted by Letterkenny Gaels on Sunday last. The lads did very well playing four very competive games, winning two and losing two. The lads had a very enjoyable day and many thanks to Kevin McDermott and Mark Killilea who travelled with the squad.

On Thursday last, our u-12 hurlers had a great win away to Burt coming out on top on a scoreline of 2-6 to 1-0. It was a great win for the lads and made the long journey home very enjoyable for all. The lads have put in a couple of great performances lately and have upped their work rate from earlier in the season. Their next game is at home to Carndonagh on Tuesday, all players to be up at Fr Tierney Park at 12.30pm.

While the u-12s made the long trek to Burt, our u-16s hosted the Burt men in Fr Tierney Park and they recorded a famous win on a scoreline of 2-13 to 3-2 with a great all round team performance.The boys battled hard through out and were worthy winners. The lads are well placed in the league and their next game is away to Buncrana this Thursday.

These were a couple of great results against the traditional kingpins of Donegal hurling - Burt- and shows the great work being put into underage hurling in Aodh Ruadh at the moment.

On Saturday last, six of our u-14s were part of the donegal u-14 development squad which took part in an Ulster council blitz in Owenbeg, all six were on the first 15 and played their part in great wins for Donegal over Derry and Armagh. The six lads were Adam Irwin, Ciaran Rami, Jamie Brennan, Eddie Lynch, Niall Harley and Colm Kelly who captained the squad. John Rooney and Peter Horan are part of the management set up for this fine squad of 25 players from nine clubs in Donegal.

This Sunday, our underage hurlers make their annual trip to Croke Park to take in the much awaited all Munster clash of Waterford and Tipperary in the All-Ireland semi-final. Under-12 and 14 hurler, Brendan Gillespie carries the best wishes of the club as he takes part in the INTO exhibition game at half-time, this is a great honour for Brendan and the club and we all look forward to seeing him playing on the hallowed turf of Croke Park.

Due to our club trip to Croke Park, there is no underage hurling training this Sunday, training resumes on Sunday, the 22nd of August 2010 at 12noon.

The u-14 footballers recorded a 3-6 to 2-4 in the first leg of their championship fixture played in Ardara last Friday night. This was a storming performance by the young Ballyshannon side.

The senior ladies had a good win against Convoy on Friday evening in the league. The game finished 3-13 to 4 points. The ladies will play Drumcliff Rosses Point this week in a challenge game in Fr Tierney Park.

Finally, congratulations to minor football panelist, Niall Thomas who scooped the Aodh Ruadh lotto jackpot of €10,000 in the draw on Monday night. There has been a tremendous support for the draw in recent times and given that proceeds from same fund the bulk of our substantial club activity, it is hoped that you will continue to purchase a ticket to be in with a chance of winning the new jackpot.

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16 August

Our senior side will hope to secure a badly needed win when they take on Buncrana on Saturday evening next. Following a heavy defeat to Kilcar on Sunday last, Val Murray's men will hope to nail two league points on the board when the Inishowen side travel south. The reserve match is at 5.30pm, the senior match is at 7pm. With strong performances from James O'Donnell and Turlough McIntyre, the reserves had a few points to spare over Kilcar in the Park on Sunday last.

The thirds take on Glenswilly at home on Sunday afternoon at 3pm and will be hoping to get back to winning ways with a play-off spot still a possibility for this side. A strong finish by bogey team, Glenfin saw the Finn Valley side win by 1-14 to 2-8 last Saturday evening.

The minor footballers face a big test this Wednesday, 18th February, as they travel to Donegal town to take on Four Masters in the second leg, first round of the minor championship. The lads delivered one of the club's best displays at minor level for some years in defeating Four Masters the first day out, but Donegal town played doggedly that day and it looks like being a war of attrition in their homeplace. The throw-in is at 7pm and you're assured of some enthralling football with this one. We would appeal to the Ballyshannon faithful to make the short trip down the N15 toget behind these boys, your support will be valuable and appreciated.

The under 14s were defeated by Saint Eunan's in the county league semi-final, but they have arguably a bigger game in front of them this Thursday when they take on Ardara in the second leg of the championship quarter final. The Ernesiders won the first game by 2-4 to 3-6 and there is sure to be a barn-storming game in the park as Ardara fight to stay in the championship. Come out and get behind this promising outfit as a big support can play a big factor in these games.

The Ladies had two good wins in the last week. Last Tuesday evening week, they took on Glenties at home and came out on top. On Monday last, they travelled to Glencolmcille where they had a strong win over Naomh Columba. The came finished 4-10 to 3-1. These games will serve the girls well in preparation for the upcoming county final against Malin which will take place on Sunday August 29th.

Aodh Ruadh's hurlers will be in Senior Hurling League action this Wednesday, 18th August, against Four Masters. The game will throw in at Tir Chonaill park at 7pm.

47 underage hurlers enjoyed a great days hurling in Croke Park on Sunday last as part of Aodh Ruadh's annual underage trip to Croke Park. As they entered the famous stadium, they were delighted to meet with Antrim manager Dinny Cahill who congratulated them on their achievements this year. The lads enjoyed two very good games and they also got great pleasure from seeing their club mate Brendan Gillespie taking part in the INTO exhibition at half time. Brendan played very well in the Tipperary colours and did his club, school (Creevy) and family proud in becoming the first Aodh Ruadh hurler to take part in these exhibition games in Croke Park. After the senior game, the lads got their by now customary group photograph on the hallowed turf of croke park. The whole group were very well behaved and a credit to the club.Thanks to all who made this trip possible.

Our u-12 hurlers beat Carndonagh comfortably in their final league game at home on Tuesday last, they played eight games in the league, winning 6 and losing 2 and improving well as the year went on. The under 14 hurlers play Lisbellaw this Friday in the much awaited Fermanagh league final, both these teams are evenly matched and a close encounter is expected. Venue and throw-in time to be announced.

Our under 16 hurlers lost a close game away to Buncrana on Thursday last by 5 points, a higher work rate by the lads could have got a better result, this squad are going to have to put in a bigger effort if they are going to get any silverware this year.

We host an under 10 blitz in Fr Tierney park this Sunday, details will be circulated later in week.

Training for all ages continues at 12 noon on Sunday. The senior hurlers were due to play Four Masters in Tir Chonaill Park on Wednesday, August 18th.

All club notes for next week can be e-mailed to John Hughes at the usual address.

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24 August

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh produced a much improved performance last Saturday to take the points against Buncrana in the Father Tierney Park in their last league game at home for 2010. Things were nip and tuck in the first half and the homesters went in at the break leading by three points, however they surged on in the second half, running out 0-17 to 1-8 winners. In the defence there were excellent displays from PJ McGee and Conor Patton while in it was the dominance offered in midfield by Stephen Ward and Michael Gurn that helped ensure the Ernesiders were remained on top in this tie. Up front Barry Ward was a tower of strength up front and Sticky Ward was back to his lethal best kicking over a slew of scores. There are some pictures of the action from the game up. Now, with four games remaining in the league programme, Aodh Ruadh are on their travels to Killybegs, Ballybofey, Cloughaneely and Malin. Promotion is still a possibility, but relegation remains a strong threat also. There was no senior or reserve fixture available for the coming weekend available at the time of mailing.

Buncrana brought only nine reserves with them for their match, so Aodh Ruadh were awarded the points. Some of Ballyshannon's stars pulled on the tricolor jersey allowing the teams to play out an entertaining challenge which ended Aodh Ruadh 1-10 Buncrana 1-3. We have pictures from the game up. Doesn't Barry Travers look fetching! There are also pictures up for the senior game and reserve game against Kilcar the week before last.

A date for your diary. Aodh Ruadh's under 21s go into championship action next week when they take on Fanad Gaels on Wednesday, 1st September at Father Tierney Park. There is no throw-in time just yet.

The minors progressed to the second round of the championship thanks to a well-earned 1-11 to 0-4 win over Four Masters in Tir Chonaill park. There are over 30 pictures from the game from Ronan Matthews and company up on aodhruadh.org, and we hope to have a match report up as well later in the week. The minors next championship opponents are Naomh Conaill. That game takes place this Thursday, 26th August in Kilcar with the throw-in at 7pm. The club appeals for a big show of Ballyshannon support to get behind our players as they take to the field for this big championship test.

The under 15 Óg Sport squad made it to the county final last which takes place this Saturday, 27th August in Burt. We have some shots of the lads going through their paces ahead of the seven-a-side blitz. We wish the lads all the very best as they bid to bring county honours back to the club for the first time since 1994 at this grade.

Aodh Ruadh showed some second half steel to book their passage into the next round of the under 14 championship. The Ernesiders got off to a blistering start, going into a 1-3 to no score lead. However Aodh Ruadh zoned out a bit after that and Ardara were able to come back into the game and edged ahead by a point. The sides battled in out point for point until the half time whistle. It was 1-8 to 2-4 in favour of Aodh Ruadh at the break, but Ardara wiped that advantage out immediately with a quick goal to make it 3-4. But Aodh Ruadh maintained their composure and picked off their points to see out the game with a fine all-round team performance. Best for Aodh Ruadh was Philip Patton who was clinical from placed ball, his two penalty goals helped him to a final tally of 2-7. There was a fine performance from Colm Kelly in midfield, which he capped with three points. Defensively, Matthew Maguire did trojan work at full back, while Callum 'Cookie' O'Halloran also had a great game in the corner. Nathan Boyle, Shane McGrath and Conor McShea with a point apiece rounded out the scoring for Aodh Ruadh. We have pictures from the game up. The draw for the next round of the championship takes place at Thursday night's Southern Board meeting with Killybegs, Four Masters and Dungloe also going into the pot.

~ HURLING ~
This Sunday sees Aodh Ruadh take on MacCumhaill's in the Junior Hurling Final in Tir Chonaill park Donegal Town, throw in at 5pm. This a big day for hurling in the club and we appeal for a big show of support to get behind the team as they big to bring Junior championship silverware back to the club for the first time since 2003.

Having finished third in the under 12 mini league the mini league was finished with four finals. Aodh Ruadh played fourth place finishers, MacCumhaill's, on Thursday last. Our lads started very slowly and were behind by seven points at half time. They put in a better performance in the second half but the Twin Towns men were really fired up for this game and ran out winners by 3-4 to 2-3. The old problem of not enough players willing to work on our team cost us in the end, as these lads go on in their hurling careers hopefully they will realise that they all need to pull their weight on the team and can't leave it to three or four lads. We have pictures from the game up.

On Sunday last we hosted an under 10 blitz with Setanta and Letterkenny Gaels travelling to take part in the blitz. All clubs fielded two teams. Aodh Ruadh played seven games and won six. All players did very well and tried very hard. Many thanks to all who helped with the catering. Thanks also to all who reffed: Peter Horan, Johnny Browne, John Rooney and especially our new refs who did very well, Pauric Keenaghan and Conor Kennedy. Thanks are also due to Michael Ayres and Kevin McDermott for all their work in organising the blitz.

Thanks to Peter Horan who did a great job reffing the under 12 game against MacCumhaill's. Unfortunately our under 14 Fermanagh league final against Lisbellaw was postponed last week. It is hoped to play this game in early September.

Best of luck to all our under 14s and under 16s involved with the county development squads this Saturday in the All-Ireland c blitzes. The under 14 event is in Castleblayney and the under 16 one is being held in Father Tierney park. Pictures of the under 16s' game against Burt earlier this month are now available.

Training continues as normal on Sunday at 12 noon. Any parent of any underage hurler who wishes to buy a subsidised helmet can contact any underage manager or John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
This Sunday 29th August Aodh Ruadh meet Malin in the Ladies Intermediate Championship Final in Killygordon at 4pm. Malin, only in their fourth year, have progressed well having just won the Junior championship last year. In the league this year they have had a good run only dropping four points in total. In the championship semi-final this year they beat Ardara away, but lost at home which lead to a third game. Malin turned on the style in the decider and earning themselves a place in the final.

Aodh Ruadh enter the final hoping that it is third time lucky having been narrowly beaten in the last two finals. The Ernesiders have had a good league campaign with only one defeat suffered. The championship semi-final saw Aodh Ruadh up against Naomh Columba. After two hard fought battles they progressed to the county final. This year the Aodh Ruadh lassies well be doing all they can and hopefully they will be able to right the wrongs of the last two years. The Ladies will be looking for all the support they can get on the day in their bid to capture a county title so pull on your green and white and get down to Killygordon this Sunday!

We have just added some shots of the ladies in the league victory over Naomh Conaill.

~ CLUB MEETINGS ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 26th August in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place on Tuesday 31st August in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

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31 August

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh fell to a demoralising defeat 2-9 to 0-5 away to Cloughaneely. The reserves failed to field against Cloughaneely. There were no senior or reserve fixtures available at time of mailing.

There was better news for the thirds who recorded an impressive 4-11 to 0-9 win away to Ardara. The side's played 13-a-side and it was the Ballyshannon boys who were able to make the most of the open spaces. They raced into a six point lead at half time and coasted home in the second half. Martin Gallagher, Paddy Kelly and Spanny Goan were among the goal scorers for the Ernesiders. The next assignment for the thirds is on Wednesday night when they travel north to take on Glenswilly at 7pm.

Aodh Ruadh's under 21s go into championship action next week when they take on Fanad Gaels on Wednesday, 1st September at Father Tierney Park. The throw-in time is 6.30pm with extra-time playable if required. We appeal for a big showing of home support to get behind the team as they get their championship campaign under way.

The minors were defeated 4-5 to 3-17 by Naomh Conaill in the championship in Kilcar last Thursday. Aodh Ruadh were undone by a nightmare first half where they sat back and allowed Naomh Conaill to make all the running. Glenties cruised into a 1-5 to no score lead in the first quarter and were 12 points to the good at the break. Aodh Ruadh came out with a much improved attitude in the second half and brought the deficit down to five points, but the chasm proved too wide to bridge. While pretty much everyone in a white and green jersey had a good second half, Conor Patton and Ronan Drummond did very well throughout the game and never stopped carrying the fight to Naomh Conaill. This concludes the minor's season. Once again it has been another year of steady improvement at minor level for Aodh Ruadh and much credit for that must go to manager, Barry Ward. Expectations are being gradually turned around at this grade and hopefully next year will represent another notch further up the curve.

Aodh Ruadh's under 15s put in an impressive display at the Óg Sport county finals last Saturday, 28th August, only to be denied county honours in the last half of football. They got the blitz off to a cracking start with a 2-8 to 0-2 win over Cloughaneely. Paddy Gillespie clearly weathered the long trip to Buncrana well, putting in a great stint and rattling up a 1-2 tally. The next group game was against Saint Eunan's. Both teams were cagey in the first half and the sides swapped around at 0-2 to 0-1. Eunan's got the best of the opening exchanges in the second half, but Pauric Patton and James Kelly struck back with goals to break the Letterkenny challenge. Apart from Patton and Kelly, Johnny Gethins also played a major part in making sure that Aodh Ruadh booked their place in the final on a score line of 2-5 to 2-6. After three blitzes the county final came down to Aodh Ruadh against the homesters, Buncrana. Both sides played a counter-attacking game and the half-time score of 0-2 to 0-1 in favour of Buncrana indicated the tight nature of the exchanges. Óg Sport is played eight minutes a half and a goal was always going to be decisive. When Buncrana got their goal midway through the second half it meant Aodh Ruadh were faced with a virtual mission impossible. The lads battled valiantly, but time simply ran away from them. It was 1-6 to 0-6 in favour of the homesters at the final whistle. Well done to the lads on reaching the county final, a fine achievement in itself and a compliment to their tactical nous and athleticism. Hopefully this defeat, while painful, will serve to sharpen the hunger for next year's under 16 campaigns. We have a wide range of pictures from the county Óg Sport finals.

After accounting for Ardara, Aodh Ruadh next opponents in the under 14 championship are Four Masters. The game takes place on Tuesday, 7th September at Naomh Bríd's grounds, throw-in at 7pm.

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh powered to junior championship honours for the first time since 2003 to secure the club's second county title last Sunday. Ballyshannon put in a fine display to defeat MacCumhaill's by 6-7 to 2-1 in the decider. Aodh Ruadh were on top from the off and applied themselves well throughout. Chris Kilgannon top-scored with 3-4, but Peter Horan was man of the match with an all-action game that MacCumhaill's struggled to contain. Aodh Ruadh were clearly a cut above this level of hurling and with a bit of commitment there is definitely the personnel and potential to make an impression at a higher level. The team that took championship honours were: Kevin McDermott; Kieran Breslin, Kevin Loughlin, Thomas Gallagher; Stephen Sheerin, Darren Gillespie, Liam Coughlan; Paul Sheridan, Kieran Kilgannon; Peter Horan, Gary Loughlin, Mickey Bowring; Johnny Dolan, Chris Kilgannon, Thomas 'Schillaci' Gallagher. Substitutes: Dominic Gillespie, Patrick McGarrigle, Paul Cassidy, Ryan O'Brien Gary O'Brian, Peadar O'Keeffe, David Downey, Aidan Begley. Congratulations to the team, the management and everyone involved in this successful campaign. We hope to have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org later in the week. The senior hurlers travel to Letterkenny this Wednesday to take on Saint Eunan's in the senior hurling league. Throw in for that one is at 7pm.

Saturday last was a great day for underage hurling in Donegal with All-Ireland titles coming to the county in two age groups: under 14 and under 16. Aodh Ruadh had a major role to play in the All-Ireland under 14c title coming to the county. We had five players on the team: Adam Irwin, Ciaran Rami, Eddie Lynch, Niall Harley and Colm Kelly who also captained the team. Jamie Brennan was also on the team but missed out on Saturday's blitz due to a pre-booked holiday. The under 14 tournament took place in Annyalla, Monaghan where ten counties took part. Donegal beat Fermanagh in their opening game, they followed this up with good wins over Louth and Tyrone. In their final group game they beat Leitrim to top their group and qualify for the All-Ireland C final where they played Sligo. The Donegal boys ran out convincing winners in the final. The team was managed by John Rooney and assisted by Peter Horan and Buncrana's John O'Loughlin. Chris Kelly and Eddie Lynch provided medical back-up to the squad. It was a great achievement by our lads and shows the esteem in which Aodh Ruadh hurling is held at this age group.

The under 16 All-Ireland C blitz was held between Ballyshannon and Bundoran. Again Donegal ran out convincing winners of this blitz, beating Fermanagh in the final. We had four players on this panel: Pat Faherty, Aaron Fannon, Conor McNeely and Rory Cullen. Well done to all the lads, it's a great achievement to have ten All-Ireland medals coming to the club and to have an All-Ireland winning captain from the club. It's a recognition of the great work being done at underage hurling in Aodh Ruadh and in the county in general.

The under 10 hurlers continued their rich vein of form with a good win against Naomh Eoin of Sligo on Thursday last. This young squad continue to improve, the hard work being put into the squad by Michael Ayres and Kevin McDermott is very obvious.

With the All-Ireland hurling final taking place this Sunday there will no underage hurling training.

~ LADIES ~
Aodh Ruadh bridged a five year gap to reclaim the intermediate championship title with a 2-15 to 2-5 win over Malin in Killygordon last Sunday. It was a fabulous performance from the Ernesiders who all but sealed the win with a sustained burst of scoring in the second and third quarters. It was a great team performance with the half back line of Tara Khan, Aoife Buggy and Annette Lloyd in uncompromising form. Captain Niamh Gallagher was immense at full back, while Donna Martin had a good day from placed ball and Sarah Patton was dominant at centre-field, chalking up 1-1 in the process. The full forward line were in exceptional form. Elaine Dorrian has just returned to football this year, but her speed, vision and shooting made her a constant thorn in Malin's side. She finished with 1-3, just pipping the impressive Dearbhaile McNeill for top scoring honours, Dearbhaile clocked up five points from play. Anna Rafferty oozed class and each of her three points, not to mention her support play exuded real quality. Huge congratulations are due to the team who suffered heartache at the final hurdle in 2008 and 2009. The team themselves wanted to record their thanks to the management team of Teddy Kane, Terence McShea and PJ Patton who managed the team, thanks also to the team sponsors MVs, who also hosted the post-final celebrations, to the team physio Moya Ferguson, to Seamie McPhelim for providing transport and anyone else who helped out during the year. Thanks to the big travelling Ballyshannon support that came and got behind the girls. We have a full match report and nearly 50 pictures from the day's action and celebrations.

While we're on the subject of congratulations, best wishes are also in order for Frances Hoy on the birth of her baby girl, Colleen.

~ CLUB MEETINGS ~
The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place on Tuesday 31st August in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

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